Education Ministry warns against corporal punishment, says school personnel could be sanctioned

The Education Ministry is warning school personnel that disciplinary action could be taken against them if they continue to use any form of physical punishment, which may result in injury or abuse of a student.

In a bulletin issued today, the ministry reminded school administrators that all forms of physical punishment contravene the Child Care and Protection Act and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

"They are also being reminded that all matters relating to school discipline are to be administered in a manner consistent with the child’s human dignity and in conformance with the relevant Acts and Conventions," a ministry spokesperson said in the release.

The ministry's release comes amid recent media reports about incidents corporal punishment in schools.

The ministry has again directed that school boards, principals and school officials ensure that all appropriate measures are taken to comply with its directive. 

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