Weird and quirky educational stories this week

Broadmoor Primary changed its name to rid itself of negative connotations. They are not the only school to have considered this move.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals have asked a school in South Dakota to change its name from Spearfish High to Seakitten High.
The justification for this identity overhaul was voiced by PETA spokesman, Pulin Modi: ‘If children were taught to refer to fish as "sea kittens," reflecting that fish, like cats and dogs, are "individuals" that "do have friendships," fewer fish might be killed for food or sport.’
This request is part of a larger campaign to change the way the world views fish. PETA are concerned that more fish are killed each year than all other animals combined. They are therefore looking for ways to challenge our perception of them, firstly by changing their name.
“When your name can also be used as a verb that means driving a hook through your head, it’s time for a serious image makeover,” states PETA’s “Save the Sea Kittens” Web site.
A noble, worthwhile cause, one might think. Unfortunately these sentiments are not shared by Spearfish High’s Head. Whilst Steve Morford did not want to share his feelings about PETA, he stated: "Obviously, it's nothing we're taking seriously."
Can’t think why.



Little Lil- the hen that laid the huge egg

Eggstra special things have been going on at the Raikes Centre in Kingsholm, Gloucester. Kate Farminer, who set up the county’s student referral service, recently decided to adopt 4 hens as part of the students’ personal development programme.
Lil gained her name because she was far smaller than her siblings: Auntie Madge, Edie and Doreen.
When the pupils discovered an egg nearly twice the normal size, they could not believe the tiny hen had laid it. An average egg is 6cm in length and weighs only a paltry 2oz whilst her gargantuan offering measured a tear-inducing 11cm and clocked in at 7oz. Although this is an impressive achievement for the Columbian blacktail cross, at present Lil is still a way off the world record. According to the Guinness Book of Records, a black Minorca hen set the record in 1896; laying an egg which tipped the scales at 12oz.
Little Lil has laid four elephantine eggs and strangely, is still laying ones of standard size as well. If this was not weird enough, when the class opened one of the eggs for closer inspection, they found an entire normal egg inside. Mrs Farminer likened it to “a set of Russian Dolls."
The pupils have met this mild phenomenon with a mixture of excitement and confusion. At one point they thought there might be a dinosaur inside but sadly their hopes were dashed.

Blondes not having all the fun at school in Gloucester

Two year 11 pupils, Reagan Booth and Abby Western were sent home from Rednock School, Dursley last week because their hair was deemed as “too blonde”.
At present, Reagan, a natural blonde who has had highlights for the past three years, is refusing to change the colour of her hair. She argues: ‘no amount of hair dye affects a person’s ability in school.’
Nevertheless, she now fears that her decision may result in expulsion, a mere few months before she is due to sit her GCSEs.
The school rules clearly state that no pupil may dye their hair an unnatural colour. However, her father, Martin Booth fully supports his daughter’s decision claiming: ‘her hair looks a very natural blonde.’
Head, David Alexander has said that the girls are not facing expulsion and were sent home simply to dye their hair. He does accept that a meeting with parents to clarify these rules will be necessary.


Facebook put to good use

There has been a recent spate of students using social networking sites to insult and criticise their teachers. This is both demoralising and insulting; it can also feel simultaneously intrusive and public. Therefore it is refreshing to learn that a recently retired teacher has defied this worrying trend by being the recipient of a Facebook appreciation society created by his old pupils.
Rene Cochlin has had a long and distinguished career in education. He spent his latter years teaching Politics and Business Studies at Gravesend Grammar School in Kent.
Named ‘The Father of the staffroom’, he is both an inspiration and confidant to all. Aside from being a talented practioner, he also stole the show at staff cabarets and organised interactive events such as Challenge of Management and Mock Parliament.
When asked about his reaction to the society, Rene said: “This is a bit golden globey! I feel humble – no I never feel humble. But I feel totally appreciative.”
The group has around 150 members and the wall details the pupils’ fond memories of being taught by Mr Cochlin. One succinct young man simply wrote: “Absolute Legend.”
It is encouraging to see proof that good teachers are always remembered fondly.