How to handle situations within the school

[deelite72]

My son has just started secondary at the West London Free School in W6. He seems quite happy. Today however his wallet was stolen (zip card, squid card for snacks at school, and a fiver were inside). I told him to speak with his form tutor. I am not sure if I should be getting involved here. I want to write an email to the deputy head and of course I want to get well involved because I am worried that this will keep happening to him and to other kids. What would experienced secondary school parents advise?

It's a horrible feeling that you can't trust your classmates, but unfortunately the answer is not to leave valuables - even an Oyster card unattended.

I would email the school and ask about what provision is made for children to secure their valuables such as lockers etc. Perhaps a warning in assembly as well.

Where was it stolen from? My dc keep their travel cards and money in a blazer pocket and they have to wear their blazers all day so that helps keep it safe. Of course, there's still PE, drama etc when the blazer is left unattended. Did your son have he wallet on his person?

Lockers etc are not really useful for keeping wallets etc in as you could spend the entire day running back and forth to get lunch card etc.

I would email his form tutor and ask if this is common or what s/he can suggest to keep things safe. This could be an unfortunate one-off incident. Oh, and just a thought, it has definitely been stolen and not dropped on the way to/from school?

My advice would be to see if his form tutor takes action. If not, phone the form tutor, and then the deputy head teacher.