A secondary school headteacher has been compelled to publicly address and deny a bizarre and viral online rumour claiming the institution provides litter trays for pupils who identify as animals.
The strange allegation, which has been circulating on social media platforms, suggested that Ousedale School in Newport Pagnell, Milton Keynes, had installed feline-style facilities to accommodate students who reportedly 'identify as cats'. The claim is part of a wider, and often toxic, online discourse surrounding gender and identity in schools.
Official Statement from the Headteacher
In a move to halt the spread of misinformation, Headteacher Mrs Sarah Bennett issued a formal statement to parents and carers. She explicitly stated that "there is no truth to this suggestion whatsoever" and confirmed that no such provision exists within the school.
Mrs Bennett expressed her frustration, highlighting that the false narrative had caused unnecessary concern and alarm within the community. The school's priority, she emphasised, remains the wellbeing and education of all its students in a safe and supportive environment.
The Dangers of Viral Misinformation
This incident is a stark example of how quickly baseless claims can spread, causing distress to school communities and diverting attention from genuine educational matters. Educational professionals are increasingly finding themselves having to combat outlandish stories fabricated online.
The school has urged parents and the local community to rely on official communication channels for accurate information and to disregard sensationalist claims found on unverified social media accounts.
