Brynteg School in Bridgend has installed CCTV cameras in its toilets after a series of serious incidents, including vandalism and deliberate flooding, raised safeguarding concerns.
The headteacher, Ryan Davies, said the decision was not taken lightly but followed reports of "significant and persistent problems" in the facilities. Pupils and parents have raised privacy concerns, but Bridgend Council confirmed the cameras only cover public areas such as wash basins and entrances.
Privacy assurances for pupils
In a letter to parents and carers, Mr Davies said the cameras "do not record inside any toilet cubicle and do not compromise pupils' privacy when using the facilities." He added: "Pupils continue to have complete privacy within the cubicles themselves."
The headteacher explained the measure was a response to repeated vandalism, deliberate flooding, and damage to fixtures, as well as behaviour that left many pupils feeling uncomfortable and, in some cases, unsafe.
Serious incidents in girls' toilets
Mr Davies noted that the most serious incidents occurred in the girls' toilets, where vandalism culminated in two cubicles being completely destroyed. The damage left pupils unable to use those facilities for much of the first half of the term while the school worked to secure funding.
The letter also mentioned regular incidents where sinks and drainage systems were deliberately blocked, causing flooding and temporary closures. A number of pupils told the school they were reluctant to use the toilets during the day due to concerns about what they might encounter.
Cameras as a safeguarding measure
Mr Davies said the cameras monitor shared areas where most incidents have occurred and where safeguarding concerns are most likely to arise. He acknowledged that some parents suggested cameras outside entrances only, but said such an approach would not identify those responsible for behaviour in communal washroom areas.
He highlighted that constant staff supervision is not possible, especially when only one male or one female staff member is available. The cameras provide an additional safeguarding measure, helping to protect pupils while keeping facilities available and safe.
The school has received positive feedback since the cameras were introduced, with many commenting they feel safer and have noticed improvements in cleanliness and behaviour. A Bridgend Council spokesman said the CCTV only covers public areas and was introduced in response to concerns raised by pupils themselves.
