School denies providing litter trays for children who identify as cats
A school sent a letter home to parents to warn it is refusing to provide litter trays for any pupil identifying as a CAT.
West Monmouth School- boasting a string of famous former pupils including Hollywood star Sir Anthony Hopkins and international rugby players – wrote to parents after pleas for litter trays alongside loos for human.
It has been forced to contact mums and dads to deny claims that cat litter trays are set to be provided for ‘furries’ pupils idenifying as pets.
Baffled parents received the letter to say there would be no provision for ‘pupils who might identify as an animal of any kind’.
Council chiefs say the note was sent in to say it ‘is not acceptable’ for special treatment for any pupil at West Monmouth School in Pontypool, South Wales, who identifies as ‘an animal of any kind’.
Deputy headteacher Claire Hughes wrote: ‘It has come to our attention that there appears to be a number of queries and concerns raised within the community regarding the use of litter trays at West Monmouth School.
‘I would like to take this opportunity to assure you that we do not and will not be planning on providing any litter trays at the school.
‘Whilst we are an inclusive and welcoming school, we do not make any provision for any pupils who might identify as an animal of any kind.
‘This kind of behaviour is not acceptable at school and as such, no provision is in place at school, such as litter trays.’
The school which opened in 1895 counts Oscar-winner Sir Anthony Hopkins – known as an ardent cat-lover – among its alumni along with legendary Welsh rugby player Graham Price and England rugby star Mako Vunipola.
Torfaen Council confirmed the letter was genuine and was sent out after “rumours and misinformation” were spreading online.
Jason O’Brien, Strategic Director for Children and Family Services at the council, said: ‘Torfaen Council is focused on pupil attainment and wellbeing.
‘It’s disappointing when schools are distracted from these priorities by having to quash damaging rumours and misinformation circulating on social media.’
The rumour comes after a litter boxes in schools hoax spread across North America alleging that certain schools provide litter boxes in bathrooms for students who ‘identify as cats’ or ‘furries’.
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