Parents blast school for refusing to let pupils wear coats in ‘freezing’ classrooms

Manchester: Parents are really upset with Co-op Academy Manchester. They’re angry because the school won’t let kids wear coats in what they call ‘freezing’ classrooms.

Many parents say the heating isn’t working well, making it hard for kids to focus on their studies. One dad mentioned that over 40 parents are planning to keep their kids home next Tuesday if things don’t change.

He shared that his daughter, who’s in Year 11, had to take off her coat before even entering the school. The school claims it’s to help kids get ready for learning, but he thinks it’s ridiculous to make them uncomfortable in the cold.

He also pointed out that this problem has been around since before Christmas, but it’s gotten worse now that it’s colder outside. He’s tried calling the school multiple times but hasn’t heard back.

What’s even more frustrating is that students are being threatened with detention for keeping their coats on. The school did say they’ve had heating issues in some classrooms and that kids can wear extra layers, including coats, in those areas.

A mum with kids in Years 7 and 9 said her daughters come home complaining about the cold, not just in classrooms but also in the canteen. She’s upset that while the kids are told to take off their coats, the staff are wearing big coats themselves.

One of her daughters even asked a teacher to turn up the heat, but the teacher said it wasn’t working and insisted on the coat rule. This mum hasn’t made a formal complaint because she feels it won’t make a difference.

The school spokesperson acknowledged the heating issue in one area and mentioned they’ve brought in temporary heaters. They also said students were informed about the changes and that they haven’t received any complaints from parents.

Have you faced a similar situation at your child’s school? Are they allowed to keep their coats on when it’s cold? Share your thoughts in the comments!