Girls at Carlow’s school ‘are told not to wear tight clothing for PE because it is a distraction’

THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE have signed a petition protesting that female students at a Carlow school have reportedly been told not to wear tight clothing in physical education classes.

Presentation College Carlow female students were told not to wear tight leggings to school as it “distracts” their teachers, the Carlow Nationalist reported today.

The newspaper said girls were given talks at school in all groups for the year, but their male classmates were not discussed about their clothing.

Parents and students have registered their anger at the incident.

To date, a petition criticizing the sexism of reportedly targeting female students has been signed more than 5,000 times.

It is unclear if the teaching staff made any complaints about the students’ clothing.

In a statement, the school said students “are regularly reminded of school rules and regulations at the assembly.”

A spokesperson said the school “continues to address the pastoral care needs of all students” through the support systems at the school.

“Any query” from parents or students in relation to clothing “will be addressed in the usual way through the usual school channels,” they added.

When contacted by TheJournal.ie On the incident, the Department of Education said that any decision on the school uniform policy “is a matter for the local school board of directors” and schools “should consult with parents and students regarding this policy.” .

A spokesperson added: “In any case where a parent of a student has grounds for a complaint, matters are normally directed to the individual teacher or the school principal, as appropriate.

“If matters cannot be resolved at that level, a complaint can be sent to the school board of directors. A school may have a formal complaint process, in which case this must be followed to address any complaints. “

‘Girls objectify themselves younger and younger’

Labor education spokesman Aodhán Ó Ríordáin has asked for an apology to the students in question.

“Students and parents are rightly upset by this letter from the school. No student should be ashamed that their attire may “distract the teacher.”

“There must also be a recognition of how completely damaging the message that was given to the students was to the male teachers.”

Ó Ríordáin said that this type of speech is “unacceptable in 2020.”

“Girls are being targeted younger and younger and the last place we expect it from is schools. Young girls should not feel embarrassed by their clothing choices in their school communities.

“It’s ridiculous that we are having to deal with a situation like this, the school should know better,” he added.

With information from Gráinne Ní Aodha