Riot breaks out at UK secondary school as pupils 'throw benches and flip tables' in protest at strict rules

A chaotic riot broke out at a secondary school as protests over toilet restrictions “got out of hand”.

The school in St Austell, Cornwall came under fire after it reduced the time students could use the toilet.

New rules included only going to the bathroom outside of lesson time and girls requesting red cards when they are on their period.

Penrice Academy defended its policy by saying they will never prevent pupils from going to the toilet if they really need to.

New rules include girls requesting a 'red card' to use the bathroom when they're on their period
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However, a message was posted on Facebook last night as students planned the protest.

The new rules received backlash from both students and parents after being branded a “ridiculous idea”.

Witnesses inside the school claimed students were “flipping tables” and were no longer allowed out for a break.

“My daughter has just called me to say the protest has got out of hand and students are flipping tables. The children are now not allowed out for break,” one witness told Cornwall Live.

Others said that some children were locked inside the school building while others were in a field.

One mum said: "They've broken fences down goal posts are trashed bins smashed, kids are running off out of school.

"A kid has literally pulled a huge clump of hair out on the fence trying to climb in to use the toilet and badly injured herself.

"I've spoken to her, checked her over and contacted her parents."

The school said “red card period passes” can be requested ahead of time for pupils to keep in their bags and use when required.

Students planned a protest against the 'ridiculous' toilet policy
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They also shared with all parents in a newsletter the "long-standing school expectations regarding coats in corridors and access to toilets during lesson time".

In a statement, the school said: “Due to a social media post yesterday evening, some of our students took the decision to protest.

“Our students have the right to express their opinions in a calm and safe manner, however a small number of students* behaviour was unacceptable.

"A number of parents have already been contacted to collect their children. For the majority of our students, lessons and lunch time will continue as normal. If you have not been contacted, there is no need to collect your child.

"We hope to engage with them to find a solution that works for everyone as soon as possible. The safety and wellbeing of our students is always our priority.