In REACTION to a Pontypool school, who was forced to deny they provide litter trays to children who identify as animals, a councillor has said ‘humans will never be animals.’

Last week the Argus exclusively broke that West Monmouth School shut down rumours that litter trays were being used and said there is no ‘provision for any pupils who identify as an adult of any kind.’

The Argus obtained a copy of the letter in which deputy headteacher Claire Hughes said there had been a ‘number of queries and concerns raised within the community regarding the use of litter trays at West Monmouth School.’

Calling the behaviour ‘unacceptable’ a spokesperson for West Monmouth said they will not be making any statements on the matter.

Parents and carers with children at the Pontypool secondary school shared their bemusement with some stories emerging of pupils who identify as animals with very human characteristics - often known as 'furies' are at the school.

Barry And District News: A copy of the letter from West Monmouth School A copy of the letter from West Monmouth School (Image: Anonymous)

It seems it really is the rise of the ‘furies’ as one parent told the Argus that their child had seen a few fellow pupils acting like animals whilst another parent said her daughter had been ‘growled’ at.

Torfaen Council’s Strategic Director for Children and Family Services, Jason O’Brien called the rumours ‘damaging’ and ‘disappointing.’

Now Torfaen Councillor Mark Jones from the Pontypool Fawr from the Independent Party said it would be ‘inappropriate for schools to treat a pupil as an animal or an inanimate object.’

The Cllr did acknowledge that ‘times are changing’ but pupils are ‘human beings and will never be animals.’

Cllr Jones said: “I welcome the response to this situation from the school and from Jason O’Brien as Director. They are both right to focus on pupil attainment and wellbeing.

“I think that after all the enquires West Mon received it made sense for them to send out a letter to confirm their stance.

“Times are changing without doubt and while we all embrace inclusivity at the end of the day all pupils are human beings and will never be animals.

“While no judgment and a show of understanding should be shown to any pupil who identifies as an animal, it would be inappropriate for schools to treat a pupil as an animal or an inanimate object and it is correct and important parents are able to raise concerns with schools, and that schools engage seriously.”

Whilst Leader of Torfaen Council Councillor Anthony Hunt said West Monmouth and Jason O’Brien are ‘right to focus on pupil attainment and wellbeing.’

Cllr Hunt said: “I welcome the response to this situation from the school and from Jason O’Brien as Director. They are both right to focus on pupil attainment and wellbeing.