28 May,2011 07:44 AM IST | | Agencies
A school has banned pupils from giving each other high-fives, handshakes - or even hugs. Governors imposed the 'no contact' rule as they say it prevents fighting or bullying. Dayna Chong (15) was thrown into detention for cuddling a female pal at The Quest Academy, in Croydon, South London. Mum Anita (33), from nearby New Addington, said the policy was "extreme" and "ludicrous".
She said, "If the kids can't even hug each other at school some of them will never learn how to be socially interactive. School is supposed to be where we start teaching our children how to be social ufffd shaking hands, hugging, opening up. You need an embrace to comfort you when things go wrong. I've never heard of anything so crazy in my life."
Dayna said, "I was just hugging my friend in the morning to say hello and I had to sit on my own and miss out on break because of it. They're trying to turn us into robots." A spokesman said, "Physical contact between students is not allowed because it is often associated with poor behaviour or bullying and can lead to fighting."
Principal Andy Crofts added, "It creates a disciplined environment which is essential for learning and respect."
