Outrage as Yeovil's St Michael's Academy Forces Children to Eat Lunch in Freezing Cold

Parents and community members in Yeovil are up in arms after it was revealed that children at St Michael's Academy have been forced to eat their lunches outdoors in freezing temperatures for the past three days.

Reports from concerned parents claim that many children have returned home hungry because their food had gone cold, rendering it unappetizing or inedible. Temperatures in Yeovil have recently plummeted, with frost and biting winds making outdoor conditions particularly harsh.

"Inhumane Treatment," Say Parents

Parents have described the school’s decision as "inhumane," accusing administrators of neglecting the basic welfare of the pupils.

One parent, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "It’s absolutely disgraceful. My son came home starving yesterday because his food was too cold to eat. These are young children who need proper nourishment and warmth, not to be treated like this in such awful weather."

Another parent added: "This is England in December, not a picnic in summer. The school should know better than to force children to sit outside in freezing conditions. It feels like they’ve put cost-cutting or convenience over the health and well-being of the students."

No Explanation from School Administration

Attempts to contact St Michael's Academy for clarification have so far been met with silence. Parents have speculated that the school just don't care.

A local campaign group advocating for child welfare is now calling on the school to urgently address the issue. "Schools have a duty of care," said  the group spokesperson . "Expecting children to eat outdoors in sub-zero temperatures is a failure of that duty."

Health Concerns Raised

Medical experts have also weighed in, warning that prolonged exposure to cold can lead to increased risk of illnesses such as colds, flu, and more severe respiratory conditions.

A pediatrician, said: "Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of the cold. Being forced to stay outside for meals, especially without adequate clothing or shelter, is not only uncomfortable but potentially harmful."

Local Community Demands Action

The situation has sparked widespread anger in the Yeovil community, with some parents considering taking their concerns to local authorities. A petition demanding an immediate reversal of the outdoor dining policy has already gathered hundreds of signatures.

“We want answers and accountability,” said one parent. “This can’t continue. Our children deserve better than this.”

As temperatures are forecast to remain low in the coming days, parents are urging St Michael's Academy to act swiftly to provide appropriate indoor dining arrangements and ensure no child has to go hungry or endure unnecessary discomfort.

The school’s failure to respond to these concerns leaves many questioning its commitment to the welfare of its students, as calls for accountability grow louder.