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School - Jessica Hall (8th Jun 2008 - 17:18:24) Do you think the schools in Liphook are good? I do but I don't think they interact with each other as much as they could. What do you think? Cheers, Jess

Re: School - Dawn Hoskins (8th Jun 2008 - 21:01:06) Blimey - I wish I had time - I could write you a book on this!! Bohunt used to be a very good school, we chose to move here as it was so high up on the Times Schools list it was a direct competitor to the local private schools. Over the years standards have dropped considerably - Eggars is now a better bet as far as achievement is concerned. I think a lot of this is directly attributable to the deputy head leaving a little while ago. Almost every morning you could care to chose you see children walking AWAY from the school instead of into it and there is never any truant catching teachers out and about like there was 5 or so years ago. Also (probably the same group of abscondees) the girls look like prostitutes with skirts so mini that you can almost see their pants and faces full of make-up and the boys look like they’ve been through a hedge backwards. They wander about with lit cigarettes making no effort to even conceal the fact that they are smoking. As far as interaction with parents - don't make me laugh!! I often have to check with other parents just to make sure I haven't missed things - there is (almost never) letters to parents or consultation with parents about things that would affect their lives or their children’s lives. Last year(or so), when one of the governors at Bohunt thought it would be in the interests of the parents to know that there was a mobile phone mast in school grounds - they sacked him for it. I really do despair at the way the school is being run at the moment – it is so disappointing. It is in stark contrast to the Infants and the Juniors who are excellent at communicating with parents and there is a [lot] of parental involvement in both schools. As a working parent, one of my biggest irritations is the regular event of teacher training days. Each school has the same number (I can’t remember but I think it is 6). A few years ago when I had one infant, one junior and one senior, I had to loose so much of my holiday that I could not go on holiday with my family!! It would certainly be a major step forward if the schools could talk to one another to co-ordinate these days. The recent debacle about the students going on strike at Bohunt about the new ‘proposed’ hours is another area where the schools could talk to each other. If Bohunt starts half an hour before the other two – it will involve a lot of hanging around as the younger ones can’t be left without supervision. If they finish half an hour before the other two at the end of the day – a further lot of hanging around will ensue – except we will have to leave work earlier for the pick up. It was interesting to read in the local paper that the School were consulting parents about this…!! Really? Maybe my powers of unspoken thought transmission were not strong enough to receive their messages! ....

Re: School - Jo Herridge (9th Jun 2008 - 13:03:36) we moved to liphook only last year and one of the reasons that swayed us to liphook was the good reputation that the school had as through our research on the area this is what we were led to believe. however, since my child has been at bohunt i have had numerous problems (some were the fault of my child some were not) and the school has not lived up to my expectations. i too see girls wearing skirts no bigger than belts and wearing lots of make up. the uniform looks scruffy with the logo polo shirts and no tie. when shirts and ties are worn they all wear their ties half undone. its amazing how a straight tie can make all the difference. i receive little or no communication via regular newsletters. although they are available on their website not everybody has a pc. i only hear snippets of this and that going on via my child. altering the times of the school day is a huge inconvenience for working parents especially those that work school hrs to fit in with the children. on the whole i have been very disappointed with the school in general.

Re: School - Sue w (9th Jun 2008 - 23:06:28) I don't have children at any school now, but do agree about the comments with the dress code of those 'wearing' uniform - just!! Watching the masses walking the streets of Liphook at chucking out time, what message does it send out about the school – a very bad one IMO!!. You only have to compare the Private uniforms (some exceedingly frumpy lengths on almost calf length) to Bohunt and the difference is huge. Who has it right? In my day most girls went through a metamorphosis each morning and evening, without parents knowing the state they were in during the day - nothing seems to have changed - except where we had knee length skirts that were raised to the (lower) thigh, today’s are thigh length raised to pant lines. If only these girls knew they looked like tarts and slappers, perhaps they would change their approach, but somehow I think they like to shock and expose themselves and I am so glad we only have Boys!!

Re: School - Claire (10th Jun 2008 - 16:17:34) If I were that unhappy with a school my child was attending Dawn I would not be wasting time posting an insulting diatribe, I would be sourcing a different school. If i were a parent of a girl at the school I would be most offended by your sweeping statement that the girls 'look like prostitutes'. With regard to parental involvement within the school - what have you volunteered to do that has been turned down ? I have always found Bohunt most welcoming and appreciative of any offers of help. OK, now to the working parent whinge - the schools are educational establishments NOT childcare facilities and should not be looked upon as such. I have had the good fortune to have had my four boys attend Bohunt, and believe me at times I am sure Bohunt would rather they were else where!. As for hanging around whilst waiting for children, I am sure you can use it well compose the next insulting barrage (whoever/whatever that will be aimed at). Anyway to assist you the phone number for Eggars is 01420 541194 i hope you and your child will be content there. We who appreciate the committment and enthusiasm of the staff will continue to support Bohunt. Well done Bohunt - doing a great job!

Re: School - Dawn Hoskins (10th Jun 2008 - 20:31:57) Claire, This is a discussion board where anyone can post their thoughts and opinions whether they are good or bad. Jess asked a valid question and it is being answered by those that have an opinion. Clearly you have no complaints about Bohunt and can rightly choose to sing it’s praises from the roof tops – this is exactly the place to do it and you are no more ‘wasting time’ than I am. Whether or not you find my opinion (and that of any other people choosing to participate in this discussion) invective, does not belittle it or make it any less legitimate. We all make our own judgments in this life and not everyone can agree with everyone else. When I mention people, I am of course not talking about every citizen on the planet. In the same way, no reasonable person would assume I was referring to every single possible female student attending Bohunt when I mention the girls – who do in my opinion look like prostitutes. For all I know, these girls may be forced to unroll their waist bands and lengthen their skirts whilst in class – but I am not commenting on that which I can’t see – only on what I can. As for hanging around. Sadly for me, I am on the 7:27am train most mornings and don’t get back until 8pm most nights – so it is my Husband or my Father that have that privilege. However, the point has been strayed from yet again; it is not the hanging around that is the issue in point – it is the non-communication about the possibility of extended hanging around that was the issue raised. I grew up in an age when teachers did training in the long school holidays – whether or not you agree with this proposition is beside the point – I am expressing my true and valid belief that as we get a shorter holiday entitlement than most teachers, it seems inappropriate that this valuable time off is used up unnecessarily – if training days can be combined it would reduce the holiday entitlement that working parents have to take in order to facilitate it. I have never suggested that schools are childcare facilities so the point you make in this regard is wasted. The point actually made was with regard to the three schools in the locality all having different days and how nice it would be if they could combine these. I do not see how that should raise such vigorous disagreement? I am pleased that you disagree with me. It is nice to hear from a parent who loves everything about the school. The fact that I believe their communications inadequate, the uniform rules brazenly ignored and the regular truants unchecked does not, I’m sure, remove your positive experience of the school. Challenging views can only ever be a good thing – it promotes discussion and can be a force for change. I think that is the whole point of this discussion board………………… Despite the fact that we have formed different opinions over the years, I do not consider myself entitled to personally insult you for your views. I am sorry you do not feel the same way.

Re: School - Darren Fagan (11th Jun 2008 - 09:26:02) I think the schools in Liphook are great , one of the reasons we moved back to the village was so that our two children could get a good education with out having to pay private school fees Thumbs up to all 3 schools

Re: School - Barry B (11th Jun 2008 - 12:04:18) Flawed attitude? I don't like what you think That must mean I don¡¦t like you That must mean you are not welcome in my club The only people allowed in my club are people who think like me Stick head in sand and refuse to see point Better attitude I like my club Your thoughts are news to me I want to improve my club Lets take steps to resolve the thing that made me angry about your thoughts.

Re: School - Simon C (12th Jun 2008 - 21:29:36) Talkback is great; you can say what you like in the comfort of your own home or blackberry. Whingeing is good for the soul. Get it off your chest. Do. Betcha this thread is monitored. Many of the comments in this thread have merit and are well put. Some are clearly hearsay and lack credibility. Where these are mixed, arguments are spoiled. There are great points about Bohunt School, there are indeed some issues that clearly make some apoplectic. Changes could be made. All organisations can be improved in one way or another. How much better though to take the points directly into the school. Make an appointment. Discuss them with the Head Teacher, Staff and Governors; intelligently, openly; hear and listen to different views. Attempt to persuade. It is a Community School. Our community. You have the right to whinge, but I hope that you would feel responsibility and be prepared to take up the challenge to promote ideas right where they can be adopted. Advocate changes for good in concert with the community. Make time to do it. You will feel better yourself in the end. Communication is often at the root of breakdown in any relations. It can always be improved. Help Bohunt to do so by communicating directly not just second hand. ….and finally for those who persist in the belief that Bohunt is aloof and does not have a relationship with the Junior and Infant Schools, my son will be in the Juniors tomorrow, to “teach” French. I know…they told me. Allez les Cerfs !

Re: School - dawn b (13th Jun 2008 - 22:04:54) Are the girls also stags? Maybe it should be 'Come on you wild animals' at least you can't be accused of sexism then.

Re: School - Andrew Carter (14th Jun 2008 - 11:37:35) Re: Tarts and slappers While Dawn may have made a generalisation regarding the state of dress of the female students, nevertheless, the point is valid. Many of the girls do dress sensibly, but a significant number dress like cheap whores touting for their next trick. Their hyper-sexualised dress sense reflects not only their own lack of self-respect, self-worth and base morality, but inevitably tars the reputation of the school and the rest of their fellow students as well. I don't see what they look like in school, but find it hard to imagine that a major transformation occurs to their appearance when the last bell rings. Tolerating such a dress code would not be appropriate in an office or a factory so why do the senior staff at the school think it should be permissible? Most of the students are under the age of 16 and yet allowing girls to dress in this manner gives the signal to the boys (and men) that they are sexually "ready and available". More specifically it is an invitation to statutory rape, which is still punishable by imprisonment in this country along with listing on the sex offenders register. In addition it cannot do anything but worsen the social problems of teenage pregnancy and STD's. While this is a problem for the school, it does not begin at the school and one must question the sanity of parents who would let their daughters go out looking like this. Far from being offended by Dawn's comment about the appearance of Bohunt girls, parents of students at the school should give some consideration as to how they are raising their children. Do they really want their daughters to get the reputation of "Bohunt slags"? Do they want their sons to think that its ok to treat girls and women like pieces of meat? A lady CEO of a company I used to work with had a very simple message on women's dress: "Ladies, if it's not for sale, don't advertise it!" I think that Bohunt students would benefit from hearing that message also.

Re: School - Jan Rathbone (14th Jun 2008 - 14:22:16) I have two 16 year old boys (and the worry lines to prove it), one is my son who has attended Bohunt school from year 7 after leaving Liphook Junior, the other is my step-son who has attended Bohunt for 3 years. This pre amble is to qualify that I have drawn my opinions from direct experience with Bohunt school. I think the communication and notifications from Bohunt are excellent. The only method they have not yet tried is carrier pigeon, but I wouldn't be surprised if it had not been discussed at some staff meeting in the past, as the reliance on pupils actually handing over a letter from their school bag that didn't have squashed banana on, or, indeed, was now 3 months old since you last emptied the bag for washing, has long been recognised as unreliable. I feel informed and advised, and I was asked to complete a Form for the Ofsted Report asking me these same questions, which was posted to me from school as a self-monitoring exercise. I have received a number of these over the years, which is to be applauded in itself. I also check I am up to date by being involved in events and checking the website, reading the minutes of the parent/governers meetings too, as we cannot be sure to always get what we should from our children, but the school makes every effort from my experience. This week I had a query about GCSE's and the teacher returned my call from her home in the evening. Now that is 'going the extra mile' in my book. I was made aware of the proposal in timetable changes some time ago, and invited, by open letter, to attend a meeting/comment. I think I alsoreceived a letter telling me of the parent governer's involvement and, indeed, the outcome of the consultations. I heard on the rumour mill about the 'strike', but I heard it was more of a 'protest', a handful of year 9's who sat outside in the lunchbreak being vocal about why they were all together. We should remember that adults would see a strike as a last resort in most circumstances when communication has broken down, however, pupils may have seen some advantage to their protestations in that they missed some lesson time, wink wink, nudge, nudge, going in late from lunch. There are open lines of communication already in place for pupils to air their views and opionions, as there are for parents too. On occasion I have sent a query via email to school and not received one reply - I get two! from two different teachers, always checking I am satisfied with the outcome. On the uniform front, I was disappointed that the polo shirt was allowed, even with conditions that it is only worn during particular term times in summer. I just don't like it because, in my opinion, it is too informal, not smart, and may add to a relaxed tone not condusive with 'getting down to learning/work', but I realise and recognise I may be in the minority and, as in all walks of life and work, majority rules. I would prefer the short sleeve cotton shirt/blouse without a tie in summer, but not the polo. I guess it's down to personal choice.I have to accept it. As for (some) of the girls who may bend the rules a bit too far with their dress and make up, let me tell you, most mornings and I mean, very regular mornings, there is a teacher or even two - (the head teacher takes his turn also), walking around outside school on the main road, sometimes as far down as the mini roundabout in the square, reminding some students about their uniform, pointing out where they are going wrong, what they should/should not be doing with their shirt tails and for repeat offenders the dreaded yellow slip is given. Every single teacher is wearing a shirt and tie or female teacher equally smartly dressed, I might add. As I sit in the traffic it never fails to make me smile seeing the pupils panic when they spot the teacher at 50 yards and hastily try to lengthen their skirt, tuck in their shirt, metaphorically rub their shoe on the back of their calves - which actually tells me they a) respect the teacher and the school and b) they know they are breaking the rules. I see the school taking action on the few pupils that let themselves down with inappropriate dress, but you can only catch so many fish with a small net. But they don't give up, there is always teachers roaming in the mornings. I think the thing that may be making this seem more prevelent at the moment is that Year 11's are taking GCSE's and therefore are allowed to attend school for their exams and revision class in non uniform, which I think is brilliant by the way. But I must say I have noticed some of the girls are being a tad extreme in their interpretation of 'appropriate' dress and, equally, their heavy handed make up use. Two girls who really stood out recently were standing on the entrance to the school corner, drawing attention to themselves, wearing black tights, very tight tiny denim shorts over the top, with white shoes . It did make me wonder if their parents knew they had left home dressed like that, indeed, did the school speak with them about how they looked. There are a few individuals who, shall we say, drew more than the usual amount of attention because of the way they were inappropriately dressed, these two young females in particular may well be the ones that drew the most attention this past week, especially as they loitered at the front of school. We will only know if this is being dealt with if we no longer see them dressing this way. I think Bohunt School is performing excellently and I am glad my boys had the opportunity of attending whilst the current Head Teacher was in place and wish him well in his newly chosen career. I do, however, hear rumblings of discontent from some parents regarding additional music tuition that is offered on a private basis. Who oversees the organisation of this. Is it open to tender on an annual basis? If not, it should be. But any problem I have with this, and I know I am definately not the only parent with a complaint, I have already put in writing and await the outcome. As for the school's exam results and teaching efforts - outstanding. I am so very impressed with the huge efforts the teaching staff are putting into revision classes for the pupils as they prepare for GCSE, it is up to parents to ensure their children get everything they can by attending them. The excellent reputation of the school gained nationally and the Ofsted Reports speak for themselves. I am certainly proud to say my boys attended Bohunt School and equally happy to recommend to parents coming into the area for their children. (please moderator person, can we have a spell and grammar checker on here. How can we reach adulthood, be successful in business, but still tremble at the thought of my own English teacher dunking her ginger nuts and tutting at my use of grammar, punctuation, spelling! :-) )

Re: School - Dawn Hoskins (14th Jun 2008 - 18:11:26) Regarding my comment about needing to contact other parents to check I haven't missed things – Jan is always my first port of call… She knows EVERYTHING! Thanks Jan. It just goes to prove two things: a) people can have diametrically opposed views – but still be good friends b) there is always two sides to every coin. Whereas I [almost] never see letters – and when I do they are the 3 month old squashed banana variety, Jan is able to check the website regularly, read AGM minutes and thinks coms’ are excellent. I would say that rather than resorting to carrier pigeon, a more reliable mode for important matters would be the tried and tested stamp and envelope method. I think it is great that some parents are chosen to complete Ofsted Report Forms and Bohunt are certainly choosing the right parents. Our opposing views would certainly skew the statistics. The fact that Jan was invited to attend a meeting about the timetable changes supports the fact that they have corresponded indeed about it – but again - being the 3 month old squashed banana type of recipient (and that is only if I am lucky) it did not get to me, neither did any other information about the matter. The first I heard about it was the student strike of which I was told there were about 400 pupils up in arms. Again, I agree with you Jan, that we see striking as a last resort – but I also respect the fact that the students felt they were not being listened to and would certainly not describe the action as ‘a storm in a tea cup’. There may well be open lines of communication for pupils to air their views, but if they are totally ignored when they do so – what good is it? They would certainly not called a strike if they felt their views were being taken into account. I wish that I still saw teachers outside in the mornings. I only catch the 9:09 one or twice a week and walk from Bohunt to the train station on those days – I am being honest when I tell you that in the last year I have never seen a teacher on patrol for uniform or truants. I always used to see the deputy Head. I’m glad you agree that the girls bend the rules too far, I really don’t think this matter can be disputed and most people participating in this debate seem to concur, but if there are patrolling teachers how are these girls still able to look the way they do? I am also sad to say that I don’t find this to be a recent thing, so I can’t agree with your theory that it is down to the Year 11's. And one last disagreement which you will probably be pleased about Jan! … my boys have had excellent music tuition throughout their time at Bohunt – which is something that I AM prepared to sing praises about. I agree that perhaps this should not be done in lesson time but you can’t fault the rates that are charged or the quality of tuition.

Re: School - Karen Feeney (15th Jun 2008 - 08:47:26) I have to agree with Andrew Carter's point about parent involvement in the appearance of Bohunt pupils. Surely the girls that we are referring to (and that is not every young lady who attends Bohunt) must leave the house with their skirts hitched up that high. As somebody else has mentioned on this thread, when we were young girls, we wore skirts down to our knees and maybe occasionally hoisted them up an inch or two if you felt the need once you got to school. Back in my day you had respect for your parents, teachers and to some degree yourself. So I really don't feel Bohunt can be blamed for the dress sense of some of its pupils, that responsibility must lie with the parents. To my mind, youngsters want to grow up so fast today and seem to miss out on great chunks of their childhood. When I was 10,11,12 I was still getting involved with my younger sister playing Sindy and Barbie doll games, can't imagine that happens today....Why these young ladies feel the need to 'display their wares' so obviously is beyond me. Why do they want to grow up so fast? I can also confirm that I very often see teachers patrolling the entrance to Bohunt and speaking to the offending skirt wearers etc and these teachers always look smart and are very polite to us Junior Shool mums! Keep up the good work Bohunt!

Re: School - Robert Douglas (16th Jun 2008 - 10:51:28) For facts see news.bbc.co.uk/.... People who need swimming pool chemicals ought to be able to afford to go to the independent schools at the top of the rankings if they were to set their priorities differently, one supposes. Or maybe they could fund the school to send out by post 1300 letters (costing £351 in stamps alone, second class, excluding printing, stationery and handling costs) to save them the bother of making time to look at the school website?

Re: School - Dawn Hoskins (16th Jun 2008 - 14:40:52) Dear Mr Douglas You have no idea how much I paid for my pool, which is in fact (for your information) an above ground plastic thing which I bought in the sale at Argos. I assume you are an intelligent person, therefore you know that whether or not I choose to chlorinate the water or instead chose to empty it out and refill it every few weeks has ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to do with the school league tables. Nor, does it take away the fact that Bohunt used to be higher on the tables than it is presently or that Eggars is now better for overall results. This assumption leads me to believe that as you find yourself unable to refute the facts, your sole purpose is to attack my character instead – maybe you feel that if you try to make another person smaller it will make you look bigger? Or that if you divert attention from the real discussion people will be distracted from the issue raised? My opinions are valid. You have not achieved your aim in trying to belittle me – I am a grown up – capable of rational and sensible debate. The only thing you display by your post is your lack of these attributes. If you would care to actually read my post, I am only advocating letters regarding IMPORTANT issues, not willy-nilly postings of every hiccup and burp that goes on inside the school. Regular day to day issues that don’t change over the year can easily be read via the web-site and I have no particular problem with this. Individual matters with are not in the normal course of things however should be brought to the attention of parents by the school. I truly believe that the onus is on the school to do this - not on the parent. How are we to know that an extraordinary matter has arisen and rush to our PC’s to trawl for it? Further, (although it may be too advanced for the computer system?) if the school wanted to save on postage – a group e-mail would cost virtually nothing. Again, I am truly gobsmacked as to why this idea seems so absolutely horrific to some people, and am, as yet, to see any ‘grown-up’ response on the matter (not including Jan). I am not some sort of hateful individual. I am merely an opinionated one who enjoys debate. I am not telling people that they should go out and commit atrocities for goodness sake! The fact that I see something differently to you, or the fact that if I see a problem I like it out in the open and talked about - does not mean that I should pack up my bags and move kit and kaboodle to another school. I certainly seem to be in the majority with regard the look of [some] girls and the impression that this creates. Do you propose to make scatter gun attacks on the credibility of everyone who holds this view also? Or perhaps tell everyone with a paddling pool to save up and spend their money on school fees? What is so wrong with sensible discussion?

Re: School - Sue (16th Jun 2008 - 17:22:36) Dawn, I am not in this to make an enemy of you, much of what you say is true, but initially, you stated that you don't have time to check their (Bohunt) web-site - but you are a very regular visitor here, perhaps when you exit this, you click on theirs, the daily visits will perhaps give you the information that you need?? Having been a parent, I would have loved the interaction that today's parents receive, and to be honest my kids would be a priority to council and community (Passfield) issues. Look after your own, at the end of the day no one else will be as good!! regards Sue

Re: School - Simon Coyte (16th Jun 2008 - 22:11:08) Before I start I must point out that the earlier posting by Simon C was not me! ( who is this imposter) Those of us who have not had the choice as to where we sent our children to school or even the chance to move so we could send them some where we would like, have sent our children to the schools in the village and hopefully taken an interest in both our children and the school that they were attending. I think on the whole the schools in the village are great and if there were problems with the school (and there have been in the past) both parents governers and staff have worked together to solve the problem. Unfortunately today too many parents are too busy to take time to go into the schools and talk to staff and similarly talk to their children at home as an earlier post pointed out educational establishments are not a child minding service. Take time, look at the problem from both sides Education should be a partnership not a one way street Simon Coyte

Re: School - Sandra p (19th Jun 2008 - 15:10:39) Hello, I think that the comments that have been left on the website about the girls skirts a bit harsh but yes they may be short but this doesn't apply to all the girls that attend the school. Most girls have short skirts beacuse of bullying that takes place beacuse people say that if you have a skirt below your knees then you are a "boffin" and maybe if the governers of the school can consider the idea of black trousers then we wouldn't have the situation of the belt skirts. As for the make-up situation the girls just like to make an effort but saying they look like prostitutes is a bit horrible. You cant blame the school for the girls having short skirts because if the parents are the ones that let them leave the house. And it's not the teachers jobs to go round checking lengths of skirts they are there to teach our children and I think you should think about it more. Sandra p.

Re: School - Neil Pope (19th Jun 2008 - 16:19:39) Sandra P, I have to agree with you on the point it is the parents and not the girls. I have lived in Liphook all my life and did go to Bohunt and things where the same in my day some 18 years ago but the parents had some control of there children which unfortunately in the time we live you are not allowed control over your own children. I have to add a comment my wife told me about some 2 months ago, I think last day for the leavers before study leave. She told me she noticed two girls in the village, first off she told me "I thought you would like them until I noticed they where school girls". She first thought they where stripper grams because they where dressed as police women but with skirts that showed off their knickers, thigh length boots and stockings, but when they walked to Bohunt she was shocked. I am not easily shocked and by no way a prude but I could not work out how a parent could let there daughter go to school like this even if it was the last day, also why did the teachers not send them straight back home. So back to agree with Sandra P - I think the parents need to take a little more control rather than blame the school all the time and take the easy way out and at the end of the day if you don’t like Bohunt then take your children out of the school.

Re: School - Sue (20th Jun 2008 - 23:41:40) Sandra, It was interesting to view your take on why some girls expose (or nearly) their undies - for the sake of avoiding bullies, because they could be classed as 'boffins'. Now, if that is the case - surely this should be the domain of the school and not the parents. IF the school adopts a more appropriate length of dress, and each girl is made to stick to it there can be no discrimination. Where those who seek to be daring do so, belittle those who perhaps don't or are not expected to by Parents find themselves a target of teasing or worse, where better to learn that each person has an individual right to be who they want to be without the brasher kind dictating to them what to wear?? Than at SCHOOL.

Re: School - reece (23rd Jun 2008 - 15:16:50) its not the schools fault about the childrens skirt lenths after school hours and outside school the staff have no power and i think if your have problem you should tell the girls yourself and see what you get

Re: School - Melany W (26th Jun 2008 - 10:40:48) Hi If i had children and the parents who are saying this comments i would not be happy its not up to the liphook community to say what the children look, like i know it is the reputation for the school but the comments are out of order. It is not up the the school to keep checking the girls skirts it the parents choice to let them out the house and for the bullying well that is probably true because in this day and age children are getting bullied over stupid things like their skirts. Well if the children were to wear black trousers then there would be no trouble or if all the girls skirts where the same length then every one will be equally the same and no one would get bullied. The smoking issue its not up to any one but the parents or the children it is a bit ridiculous smoking out side the school grounds because every one can see the children doing so. The girls wear makeup to make an effort because going back to the bullying they would probably get bullied for being different and not looking the same with makeup and that is not fair because it is up to the children and there parents. I think that that some of the people who are commenting on the school is out of order and especially for you Dawn it is not up to you what the girls look like its up the their parents to let them out the house looking like what they look like. Personaly the school is trying their best to get the girls skirts the right length there are always teachers in the morning and at the end of school telling the girls to pull their skirts done and I feel sorry for all the teachers to have to be doing that. Melany w

Re: School - Dawn Hoskins (26th Jun 2008 - 14:03:54) Dear Melany, It is strange that despite merely being one of many who feel that [a number of**] girls let the school down; you should specifically single me to be ‘out of order’. I have not used colourful language such as ‘slags’ etcetera so perhaps you should read through all the threads and establish whose opinion you are disagreeing with? I think you will find that most contributors agree that the image of the school that is being created by these girls** is very damaging – does that mean we are all ‘out of order’ because you disagree with our opinion? I [agree] with Melany, that it is not up to me how these girls turn themselves out. If the school purport to have a uniform policy, which they do, then it is very much up to them to police it. As it is not my policy – but the school’s (Reece) I am not in a position to approach any children directly to “see what I get” as you so politely put it. Although the school are not empowered to tackle parental [indecision?] regarding their daughters choice of apparel, they are empowered to make all students conform to the set uniform policy, which they themselves have set. Therefore, I completely disagree with the contributors who say this is nothing to do with the school. If Bohunt was a ‘non-uniform’ school – then I may be able to agree, but it isn’t – so I can’t. I would also point out (Neil Pope) that disliking the way some girls** dress, does not equate to disliking Bohunt as a whole - and certainly, having concerns over particular problem areas does not mean that parents should uproot their children mid GCSEs to other schools. Clearly that would not be in the best interests of any child. I wonder….if there was actually a school in the area who publically stated on their prospectus…... girls can wear what they like even though they are only minors – looking at pants..yep ,no problem, high heeled shoes and make-up..sure..bring it on..no problemo! Would you send your daughter there? Would you allow your son there to watch them like he was at a cattle market? I don’t think so!! That is why there is a uniform policy. Parents know about it. Pupils know about it. They all agree to conform to it. 99% probably do – but sadly is the few who get noticed that affect the reputation of the school. Girls of this age do not have to ‘make an effort’ as Melany puts it. The whole point of a standard uniform policy is to make sure all look the same and all are treated the same. Girls faces are the way God made them, they are fine just as they are. There are just a few other points I would like to raise. Discussions on public forums such as these where people are free to talk about issues which concern them or others are certainly not classifiable as whinges (Simon C). OK, I will re-phrase that! SOME posts may be childish bleatings with no substance - perhaps these childish ones could be defined as whingeing – but the majority of the discussion here is sensible adult debate – trying to define it as whingeing makes it seem either unimportant or irrelevant – of which it is neither. Also, events which we have witnessed with our own eyes are not hearsay. We are not upset because we have been told by some complete stranger that minors are wandering in to Bohunt with lit cigarettes etc, we are upset because we have seen it ourselves – so I am not sure what your point is there? Further, why, if we wish to discuss things in an open forum such as this, should it be a pre-requisite of some sort that we take the points directly into the school? That is not the point of a discussion board at all. Some people, Simon C, are not comfortable if they are not anonymous – why else would people refuse to print their surnames on this board? They have the right to air their views without worrying that the Head Master will look their names up and call them in to explain themselves - and have every right to enter discussions and debate issues that concern them without feeling under pressure to make a personal appointment at the school. For your information, I know first hand that this thread is read by the school – so it does reach them - albeit indirectly. I also have first hand experience of trying to discuss issues with the Governors……… When (thanks to the Herald) the issue of Bohunt’s telephone mast was dragged kicking and screaming to public attention, despite the governors doing all in their power to keep it secret. I wrote a very long and detailed letter to each and every governor at Bohunt and delivered them personally at the reception to ensure they got to the school. I think I printed off about 18 copies! In a nutshell I pointed out that a) they should be ashamed of themselves for sacking a governor because he thought the issue important enough to be brought to our attention, and b) they shouldn't be thinking about the money involved over and above residents’ health - thus making decisions in the phone industry’s best interests. I expect them to act in the best interests of pupils and the wider population of Liphook instead of willingly subjecting them to low intensity microwave radiation. Do you know how many of them had the decency to even confirm receipt of the letter? NOT ONE. NOT A SINGLE BLOODY ONE. The sacked governor remained sacked - and the school took it’s Judas coin for the mast. As far as I am concerned they lost all credibility at that point . If you want to read the letter I sent to the governors the link is here: www.liphook.co.uk/... This board has raised a very concerning issue, which I had no idea existed. Bullying. I may complain about the standards of communication from school to parent (Oohh perhaps I have deviant tendencies) but one of the things I did not think happened at Bohunt was bullying. If it is true that girls are being taunted for not wearing faces full of make-up and mini skirts – and this peer pressure is leading them to be ‘bullied’ into cheapening themselves – then the School has a bigger problem on its hands than I thought!! I do not believe this to be the case, but maybe other parents know different. ** it appears to be necessary to qualify any reference to ‘girls’ in an attempt to limit the statement to only the girls wearing offensive clothing – just in case persons might think we are referring to the entire female population of the school! (I know – silly isn’t it).

Re: School - Sue W (26th Jun 2008 - 20:42:38) Well put Dawn. There does seem to be a 'younger' element, which is missing the point. All the time a uniform, representative of a school is being worn, the behaviour is directly linked to that school - even if it means on the way home!!. There were often pupils at my school, who were summoned to the Head for misbehaviour etc after school hours and dealt with accordingly. Perhaps it is the privilege of the young to believe that dressing in such a way and putting on heavy make-up is making them appear well presented, groomed, polished, and respected. Unfortunately, until they are out in the world will not understand that most people do not share their view point, and from my own observations and hearing comments many young men do not think that way about them at all!!. Friends of mine have 2 teenage daughters, one very much adopted the slap on thick make-up, raise the skirt and totter about in foot breaking shoes - right up until she was into her 4th month at Beauty school. Now, aged 17, wears much less make-up, but done beautifully, and has a body to die for, but keeps the secrecy to entice interest, and not ‘this is what I have – do you want it’ look. Perhaps it's a transition that comes with maturity. Again, this is not aimed at all pupils, and well done to those who reject the bullies, who, from Reece’s suggestion would only utter abuse …that is another subject entirely

Re: School - Sandra p (27th Jun 2008 - 10:55:38) Well, i think that the situation with skirts is being delt with. And we should'nt judge the school until the situation has been fully dealt with. The girls that have short skirts are being taken to the nurse and being given a week to sort it out other wise they get taken back into the nurse and are given a skirt that is past the knee or even lower and then if they refuse to where that skirt then they are taken to exsclusion or sent home. So i personly think that school has taken everyones opinions into account and are dealing with them. Maybe you should start to say how good the school is instead of putting it down.

Re: School - Chris (27th Jun 2008 - 15:26:41) The school is very good but in the main can only be as good as the pupils that attend it. Given that its mission statement, attitude and committment are all perfect in theory, much of what it achieves and fails in can only be determined when the kids actually turn up and take part. It is primarily a place of learning which not every child that attends wants to take full advantage of. The degree to which it achieves its purpose in this will be the deciding factor (results, achievements etc.). I can't imagine any of the teachers working there want to actively jeopardise the school's success so parent and pupil committment to the school and its mission is key. Bad behaviour of any nature diverts staff from the job in hand and wastes everybody's time.

Re: School - Sue w (27th Jun 2008 - 15:39:36) Sandra P If what you say about Bohunt addressing (!), the skirt issue is being dealt with, then full marks to them. It also shows that they are pro-active and it would make me more inclined to recommend the school in light of their efforts. It just goes to show, that interaction in this kind of medium is very useful, and perhaps the school did not realise how strong the feelings were from the community. It proves that using this discussion site, letting off steam etc does have justification, and if as a few posters suggested, people should not use this to air our concerns, but go directly to the school, (or even approach girls directly), would it of had the same affect??. Well done to Bohunt School.

Re: School - Jasmine Mansfield (3rd Jul 2008 - 15:29:29) Stop Slagging the school off on this website, it is a bit pathetic to be honest, it is like you are all school girls again bitching about anything you can. its not like any of you were innocent when you were their age, and as for them smoking it is usually influenced by adults, they must get their actions form somewhere, ''back in my day'' hunny i hate to tell you we aren't in your day, Hah i Can not belive you are comparing Bohunt a rather nice state school which have good results in GCSE' , and the childrens eductaion is not exactly lacking, and it is not like the school is in special meassures, but comparing the school to a private school, a snobby expensive school, darling there is reasons for the shcools to be completely different, it' a way of life and learning and learning about what life style you wish to have when they are older. Teachers try to tell the girls about their skirts but , to be honest, it' not like they aregoin to listen .

Re: School - Chris (3rd Jul 2008 - 16:26:28) ...did Bohunt teach you how to construct sentences and spell Jasmine? If so yikes!...

Re: School - Janet A (5th Jul 2008 - 01:08:03) Gosh, Jasmine, calm down! It's OK for people to have views that oppose yours. If people disagree with you, it doesn't mean that they think your opinions are invalid, it just means they simply don't share them. You obviously love Bohunt and that's great, but not everyone feels the same. They are not "slagging off" the school, as you put it, merely exercising their right to express their opinions on an open message board. Don't take it personally! Does Bohunt have a debating group? if not, then perhaps it should. It's a good way to learn about opposing views.

Re: School - claire (6th Jul 2008 - 19:50:14) can anyone tell me why a post sent by a woman who does mysome work for me was not accepted ? It was not abusive. Could it be because it was sent from one of my computers whilst she was working here ?? This seems very unfair as many of my family share particular computers and many people who work for me share computers (so the IP would be the same). Maybe it was more sinister, maybe the moderators only chose to place posts which are more inciting? I truly am puzzled. [editor - Hi Claire, only one post has not been accepted to this thread - it was clearly a fake response aimed at belittling one of the other posters. If you would like to get your employee to post her response again, it will be considered - like all others]

Re: School - Milly Bains (10th Jul 2008 - 13:53:59) I have two nieces who attend bohunt school, and in the last few weeks, we have recieved letters from the school regarding skirt length, something is being done about the problem. I agree with the comments regarding the dress code of the school should be followed, I grew up in africa, where school was very strict, and rules were obeyed or consequences were faced. Its a crying shame the way the youth of this Great country behave.

Re: School - Editor (12th Jul 2008 - 16:19:32) Lipstick in School (joke) (You've got to love this Headmistress) According to a news report, a certain private school in Newcastle upon Tyne was recently faced with a unique problem. A number of 12-year-old girls were beginning to use lipstick and would put it on in the bathroom. That was fine, but after they put on their lipstick they would press their lips to the mirror leaving dozens of little lip prints. Every night the maintenance man would remove them and the next day the girls would put them back. Fi nally the Headmistress decided that something had to be done. She called all the girls to the bathroom and met them there with the maintenance man. She explained that all these lip prints were causing a major problem for the custodian who had to clean the mirrors every night (you can just imagine the yawns from the little Geordie 'Princesses'). To demonstrate how difficult it had been to clean the mirrors, she asked the maintenance man to show the girls how much effort was required. He took out a long-handled squeegee, dipped it in the toilet, and cleaned the mirror with it. Since then, there have been no lip prints on the mirror. There are teachers.... ........and then there are educators.

Re: School - L (25th Aug 2008 - 23:52:41) hi all, as a pupil of last terms year 11, I can say Bohunt did nothing to help me. As someone with dyslexia they didn’t help me enough because ‘I wasn’t as bad as the other children’. Resulting from this I got poor GCSE results, im not a thick person and I did try in school, but I would say getting an E in math isn’t impressive to any employer. Luckily for me I am starting an apprenticeship in September at Toni and guy hairdressers, with no help from the school, all sorted out myself. I could write a stupid amount about how bad the school is and what some teachers have said to me but I want to save them the embarrassment.

Re: School - Jan Rathbone (26th Aug 2008 - 14:22:49) Hi L - I am sorry to hear you did not get the support you feel you should have had from school, however, good for you at getting the job at Toni and Guy - you go for it! find what makes you happy and stick with it. I could list many people who left school without any qualifications at all and managed to earn a living, get married, have children, be happy. They didn't all turn out to be millionaires, some did, but that's life. You don't need a GCSE or an 'ology from College or Uni to confirm you have a good memory when taking exams. Many of the nicest, most intelligent people I know, did not pass their exams and those are the friends that really count. The nice people. Like you. Never give up! Good Luck - you may do my hair one day! - better still, one of those teachers may come in to your salon and you can smile sweetly, click those scissors and do their hair too! ... :-)

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