Pupils at Angus School left 'deeply hurt' as private medical details leaked in assembly power-point

Author: Greg Ockrim Published 17th Dec 2019
Last updated 17th Dec 2019

Parents and pupils of Brechin High School are hitting out at the school following a serious breach of personal information.

Senior students attended an assembly, when a power-point showing a list of 52 names highlighting each of their specific requirements including things like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), dyslexia, medical and mental health problems.

Ellia Wilson is a 5th year student at the school, and left the assembly in outrage.

She said: "We were shown 4 slides listing the different types of disabilities within the school and along side these descriptions with a colour coded list giving the names of 52 pupils (first and last names) who matched these descriptions.

"These were pupils with ASD, mental health problems, dyslexia, medical problems or health issues, blind and deaf.

"Many pupils and teachers in the assembly hall realised that this was wrong, I myself stood up and protested to the 2 heads to highlight what they were doing was wrong yet they ignored me and carried on, I then left the hall.

"Only a few weeks ago the school held a mental health and well being week, which was prioritised over core-class time.

"We are meant to feel safe and secure whilst in school but this is a massive breach of trust.

"I know people who are extremely and deeply hurt by this and are considering not returning back to school due to embarrassment and potential bullying.

"The school has extremely let everyone down. There must be consequences for these actions."

Angus council responded to the viral tweet saying "Personal details were inappropriately shared.

"Enquiries will establish the full circumstances and the UK Information Commissioner has been advised.

"The Head Teacher is contacting parents of those concerned and support will be provided (as requested/required)."

One parent told Tay News: "We were shocked and then really angry that the school could stoop so low to breach vulnerable learners and vulnerable pupils trust and breach the privacy and confidentiality of these young people.

"I can't think why they would do this but it was clearly planned because it was being planned.

"This was being delivered by additional support needs and the depute head to the senior conhort.

"None of the names of the 52 people weren't given any advance warning that this private and delicate information was going to be shared to such a wide audience

"They didn't have any choice or prior consultation in the matter.

"That control was taken out of the childrens' hands.

"We would like to see accountability for those who did this and an apology to those affected.

"It just feel surreal that the teachers we trust our children with and they can let this happen and think it's fine to broadcast all this information.

We've contacted Brechin High School for response.

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