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A Perth primary school is under fire over its decision to ban cupcakes from school birthday celebrations, partly due to a bid for greater cultural diversity.
Arbor Grove Primary School in Ellenbrook will also ban lolly bags and other “unhealthy options” from Monday.
Students who disobey the rules have been warned – with items set to be confiscated or returned home at the end of the day.
In a letter to parents, the school principal said the decision was made partly due to the increasing number of students with food allergies, as well as cultural diversity.
‘May not be a universally popular decision’
Principal Glen Purdy acknowledged that the decision might be unpopular.
“Whilst teachers at Arbor Grove are happy to celebrate the birthdays of students in the classroom, we must do so in the most inclusive, practical and appropriate way,” he said.
“Following concerns raised by members of our community, the school executive have reviewed the school’s position.
“During our deliberations we have been mindful of the increasing number of students with food allergies and intolerances, the cultural diversity of the school and the beliefs and traditions of these cultures.”
“I acknowledge that this may not be a universally popular decision, however, it does avoid the risk of a child suffering a potentially life-threatening health issue if they ingest an item they are allergic to and is respectful to the cultural diversity within the school.”
On the school’s website, it says Arbor Grove is “proud of our cultural diversity” with students from over 14 different nationalities.
‘Don’t even get me started’
Parents have hit back at the decision on the school’s P&C Facebook page saying the policy is a “total contradiction”.
“There are a lot more important issues this school should be concerned about & trying to fix NOT STOPPING OUR KIDS FROM BEING KIDS,” one parent said.
“Don’t even get me started… so it’s ok to sell soft drinks at a school disco for fundraising but not ok to bring a cupcake to school for a birthday,” another woman said.
Another mum suggested allowing children to bring loot bags filled with non-edible items like balls, coloured pencils, and crazy straws.
“It would be a very sad day when a child is not allowed to celebrate their birthday at school,” she said.
7NEWS.com.au has contacted Arbor Grove Primary School for further comment.
This story first appeared on 7NEWS and has been republished here with permission.
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