In a shocking turn of events, St Peter’s Church of England Primary School in Folkestone, Kent, has unleashed a new policy that’s bound to ruffle some feathers among parents. Teachers at the school are taking a bold stand against chronically late parents, asserting that tardy pick-ups disrupt their workflow.

In a newsletter penned by headteacher Toni Browne, a stern warning was issued to parents about the consequences of habitual lateness. Browne stated, “We have an increasing number of children who are being collected late at the end of the day, without the office being informed or any apology to staff.” She emphasised that staff members have tasks to complete after children are dismissed, and late pick-ups hinder their ability to do so.

Starting from Term 2, the school is implementing a strict policy: students collected late on more than one occasion will be placed in the after-school club, and parents will be hit with a £6 charge for the privilege. Browne acknowledged that occasional lateness is understandable, but stressed the importance of parents informing the school office in such cases.

Folkestone Harbour ward councillor Nicola Keen voiced support for the school’s initiative, stating, “I don’t think this is unreasonable as children can be very anxious if their parents are late to pick them up.” Keen urged parents to communicate clearly with the school, adding, “I would be very surprised if the school would actually have to enforce this. The pastoral care within this school is absolutely amazing.”

While the move has stirred some controversy, Kent County Council confirmed that, as of now, no parents have been charged under the new rules. A council spokesperson clarified, “Parents were informed at the start of November 2023 that pupils who are collected late from school on more than one occasion will be put into an after-school club and a fee of £6 may be applied. The school appreciates that there may be occasions where late collection is unavoidable and simply asks that parents keep the school informed.”

As the debate unfolds, parents are left to ponder the implications of this bold step by St Peter’s Primary School. Will this deterrent successfully curb tardiness, or will it spark a rebellion among the school community? Only time will tell.