As we mentioned last week, Lanesend Primary School will be moving into their new premises shortly (see appeal for help with finishing touches).
Details of the plans were outlined in a recent newsletter to parents issued by the Head Teacher, Caroline Sice.
We spoke with Mrs Sice this morning who explained that the trial would be based on the exemplary Finnish model, where taking off shoes has led a more relaxing and calming environment for pupils.
“Many of the children take their shoes off under the tables already,” said Mrs Sice “and we’ll be providing special cupboards in the new school for coats and shoes, so there won’t be a problem with trip hazards.”
“I would like to have a go”
Mrs Sice told parents in her her newsletter, “I have walked around the site and it is very exciting, just seeing how new and bright it looks. I have been also thinking about how we can keep it looking new and bright, and one of the things I would like to trial (and I know you will think I am mad but I would like to have a go!) is to wear no shoes in school.
“I have looked into different countries that adopt this policy and the result is a very calm and relaxing environment, and as many of our children already take off their shoes underneath their desks I thought this would be a good thing to do when we move to the new site.
There will be a ban on drawing pins!”
Parents concerned about use of toilets
Some parents have raised concerns about young boys having to use the toilets without shoes and the possible health risks attached to that.
Mrs Sice said she did understand that some parents may have concerns, but stressed that a full risk assessment would be carried out prior to the trial and that the local authority were aware of their plans.
Tackling the issue of boys using the toilets, she explained that the new school would not have urinals and that a hotel-style process of checking the toilets several times a day for cleanliness would be followed.
Plenty of spare socks
The no-shoe rule will also avoid the problem of children arriving in the winter with wet or muddy shoes and having to sit cross-legged with them on in during assembly.
Finally Mrs Sice confirmed that there would be a sufficient supply of spare socks.
