School Ordered to Apologise to Student and Parents after Discrimination Claims
A recent tribunal has ruled that St Joseph’s Catholic School in Port Talbot must issue an apology to a student, Kian Mills, and his parents for discrimination after failing to provide adequate support for the student. The tribunal found that the school had discriminated against Kian by not considering his ADHD and dyslexia when applying behaviour policies, resulting in over 250 punishments, including detentions, exclusions, and isolations.
Kian’s parents, Aldon and Julie Mills, made the decision to remove him from St Joseph’s last June and opt for homeschooling due to concerns about his wellbeing at the school. They highlighted that the rigid Covid lockdown return rules exacerbated Kian’s challenges, as he struggled to focus and regulate his behaviour in the classroom due to his undiagnosed ADHD.
Julie Mills, a healthcare worker, and Aldon Mills, employed in the probation service, have been vocal about the lack of support and understanding for students with additional needs in the education system. They emphasized the importance of raising awareness and advocating for children like Kian, who may be facing similar struggles in mainstream schools.
The tribunal’s ruling, which was delivered in January this year, highlighted the failure of the school to provide reasonable support for Kian and recognised the impact of its behaviour policies on disabled children. The tribunal ordered the school to issue formal apologies to Kian and his parents, update its behaviour and additional learning needs policies, and provide training for staff and governors on supporting neurodiverse pupils.
Despite the apologies and proposed actions by the school, Julie Mills expressed reservations about sending Kian back to mainstream education, citing concerns about the system’s ability to adequately support students with additional needs. The family has chosen to continue homeschooling Kian in Port Talbot, but they stress the importance of systemic changes to ensure all children receive appropriate support in educational settings.
Kian, who aspires to become a chef, shared his relief at no longer being in a school environment where he felt unheard and misunderstood. He described his experience of being constantly in trouble at school as frustrating and upsetting, noting that the homeschooling arrangement has brought him a sense of peace and understanding that was lacking in his previous educational setting.
In response to the tribunal’s ruling, a spokesperson for Neath Port Talbot Council refrained from commenting on individual cases but acknowledged the importance of addressing issues related to discrimination and support for students with additional needs. As the Mills family continues their journey of homeschooling Kian, they remain hopeful for a future where all children, regardless of their challenges, can thrive in educational environments that nurture their potential and well-being.