A Stockport school has ditched a “humiliating” rule which made children with learning disabilities carry a sunflower lanyard.

Werneth School, managed by the Education Learning Trust (ELT), told parents last week children with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) would be required to wear or carry the lanyard and show it to staff when asked.

Parents were warned anyone who did not fall in line could face ‘disciplinary action,’ but the policy sparked furious backlash, with one parent, Jennie Fabri claiming, her son was targeted by bullies.

Others questioned why the lanyard was compulsory rather than being worn by choice by the children.

Today (Wednesday, November 6), the ELT announced the policy has been revoked following an investigation.

In a statement sent to parents they said: “The Trust has now visited the school specifically to look into the matter and took the decision that lanyards will no longer be used.

“The school priority to improve its SEND provision remains focused on ensuring an inclusive culture where every pupil is able to achieve.”

Werneth School (Image - Google Maps)

Leigh Jones from the Brinnington SEND group said parents and children at the school were delighted with the U-turn.

The group said in a statement: “We’re over the moon and very grateful, it’s what we needed. The kids are happy and we think they did a great job standing up for what they believe in.”

Another parent added: “I’m just really happy that they have been able to see it from our point of view and listen to the concerns.

“Now I feel my child will be much happier and settled going into school without any possibility of that being given to her. It’s really reassuring that there’s a choice back again.”

Others remained worried about whether the policy could cause lasting damage to some of the children at the school.

Ms Fabri, whose autistic son Finlay has remained at home after allegedly being targeted by bullies, said: “It’s a start, but Finlay still remains at home as I have not had contact from the school at all.

“There’s still issues that the school states it’s a SEND inclusive school but they don’t seem to be including Finlay.”

The ELT said staff at Werneth School have made efforts to contact Ms Fabri about the situation.

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