Frome College, a state comprehensive school in Somerset, has faced criticism from parents after 25 pupils were suspended during the first week of term under a newly appointed interim principal. The suspensions reportedly stemmed from what some parents and students described as minor infractions, including “nervously laughing,” “zipping a bag too loudly,” and “being a minute late.”

The school, which admits students starting in Year 9 at age 13 and offers A-levels, Btecs, and Cambridge Technical qualifications to older pupils, recently came under scrutiny for its strict disciplinary measures. Parents described the environment as reminiscent of a “military base,” expressing concerns over the impact of the rules on students’ motivation and wellbeing.

Natalie Morris, whose daughter has special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), said her child was suspended for “nervously laughing” during the first week. Morris highlighted the challenges her daughter faces adapting to a new school environment and called the suspension a “massive setback.” Other parents reported similar concerns, citing suspensions or disciplinary actions for seemingly minor behaviors such as “looking out a window” or minor lateness. Ann-Marie Ramsey, another parent with a child who has SEND, described the school’s discipline as excessive, noting that students were monitored for details such as hair and nail color and that some children were sent to a “reset room” for not complying fully with school expectations.

Current students voiced frustration as well. Sixth-form pupil Liam Backhurst described some suspension reasons as “outrageous,” saying that many Year 9 students started the year enthusiastic but now felt demoralized.

In contrast, some parents supported the school’s approach. Liz Halliwell expressed approval of the increased consistency in education she believed the new measures would bring.

Interim principal Dan Jeffries defended the suspensions, stating they were a response to “persistent disruption” caused by defiance after repeated incidents. He emphasized that no suspensions had been issued for minor infractions such as dress code violations or lateness, calling such reports “entirely incorrect.” Jeffries said the majority of parents supported the school’s standards and that the administration’s priority was to provide a “safe and supportive environment” conducive to learning without disruption.

Jeffries also acknowledged some students find returning to school challenging but stressed the importance of high behavioral expectations to prepare pupils for future success. The school maintains a policy that students may be considered for suspension if they demonstrate “complete defiance” causing disruption on four separate occasions.

Frome College’s traditions date back to 1921 when it was founded as a grammar school before transitioning into its current comprehensive format in the 1970s. The recent disciplinary actions have sparked a debate about the balance between maintaining order and supporting individual student needs as the school adapts under new leadership.