New powers to allow teachers to frisk pupils
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.New powers allowing teachers to search pupils for mobile phones are expected to be outlined as part of an initiative to stop disruption in classrooms.
An education White Paper to be published next week will outline new rights for teachers to frisk pupils for any item which could interrupt lessons.
School staff will be able to confiscate mobile phones, MP3 players and other electronic gadgets.
It is understood the reforms will also give staff the power to search pupils for items including pornography, cigarettes and fireworks.
Previously, teachers could only search pupils' clothes and bags for weapons, drugs, alcohol and stolen goods if the student did not give consent to the check.
The White Paper will also set out plans to simplify rules on the use of physical force, giving teachers greater powers to take disruptive children out of classrooms without fear of legal action.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments