Why I Would Never Send My Child to a Catholic School
My time at this school has been a negative experience overall. This is a pseudonym to protect my identity, as I prefer not to be contacted by the school. My mental health significantly deteriorated during my years there. The bullying I faced in Year 7, while it eventually lessened, has profoundly impacted who I am today. My anxiety is so overwhelming that simply attending school feels like a monumental challenge.
During a school assembly addressing uniform policy, we were told that things like dyed hair and piercings were attempts to “stand out,” yet the message ultimately was “Don’t stand out, fit in.” For a Catholic institution, there’s little encouragement for individuality. At one point, the bathroom policy changed, requiring students to have their diaries signed to leave class. On a day when I didn’t have mine, access was denied. While some teachers show empathy towards students, many foster a culture of negativity, making it hard to enjoy the school experience. The school’s claim of being a “bully-free” zone rings hollow if it fails to support victims. The promotional materials portray a nurturing environment, but the reality is that only those who conform to strict rules thrive here, while everyone else’s individuality is stifled.
Despite claiming to be “inclusive,” the school seems intent on pushing every student to conform. While I acknowledge that private and Catholic schools come with added rules, the regulations surrounding sock and hair length are excessive. Any trend deemed “unacceptable” by the school quickly gets banned.
I’m currently in what I hope will be my last year (Year 10) before transitioning to an alternative educational path for my senior years. When I mentioned my plans to a teacher, she remarked that Mater is a great school that no one ever wants to leave—clearly not the case for many of us.
I have my helix and seconds pierced (I actually got my seconds done in the school bathrooms, which is a story in itself). When my helix became infected and couldn’t be removed, I received multiple demerits that day. Five demerits lead to after-school detention, causing me to miss drama class due to mandatory consequences.
Academically, the school performs averagely, excelling primarily in religious studies, all while overlooking essential subjects that prepare students for future success.
Recently, the school banned fidget toys. I understand the concern in primary schools, but in high school, it should be recognized that many students genuinely need them. The administration claimed that “learning support” stated that no one actually requires these tools. This is simply untrue—my anxiety makes it necessary for me to have something to fidget with in order to prevent a breakdown.
In Year 8, I discovered that the mandatory software installed on our personally-owned laptops—purchased by our families—has the capability to view our passwords and even reset our devices. This is a serious breach of privacy. Although we are required to sign a consent form in our diaries each year, it feels unjustifiable. This isn’t just an issue at my school; all Catholic schools in our diocese face this problem.
Young adults should not be learning in such a restrictive and unhealthy environment. It’s detrimental to teach them that there is only one path to success and happiness.
If you’d like to hear more, just let me know!
It sounds like you’ve had an incredibly challenging experience at your Catholic school, and it’s completely valid to express your feelings about it. It’s disheartening to hear that the environment has negatively impacted your mental health and well-being. Schools should be a place where students feel safe, supported, and able to express their individuality, yet it seems like you’re encountering strict rules that stifle that.
The issues you raised about bullying, strict uniform policies, and a lack of support for students who need accommodations like fidget tools are particularly concerning. It’s crucial for schools to foster an inclusive atmosphere where every student feels valued and understood, especially those who struggle with anxiety or other mental health challenges.
Your frustration with the school’s approach to individuality and expression is completely understandable, especially when you feel that your needs and those of your peers are not being taken seriously. It’s essential for educational institutions to recognize and accommodate various learning styles and personal needs.
It’s great to hear that you’re considering alternative education options for your senior years. You deserve an environment that supports your growth and respects your individuality. If you feel comfortable sharing, a part two could highlight what you hope to see in a future school experience or any changes you believe would benefit students at your current school. Wishing you all the best as you navigate through this experience!