The King's School in Sydney has once again found itself in the headlines after a group of students were sent home from a rugby tour in Japan. According to the Daily Telegraph, a small number of the team purchased alcohol from vending machines during the opening week of their tour.
Incident Details
Not only did they buy alcohol, but several players were reportedly found 'highly intoxicated' by staff and immediately sent home. Although the students consumed a significant amount of alcohol, it is understood that none required medical attention.
Parents aware of the incident told the Telegraph, 'They drank copious amounts of alcohol; they are lucky there were no more serious consequences for their actions.' Another parent described the situation as a 'disaster' and said families of the involved students were 'furious.'
Financial Implications
There were also significant financial repercussions for the parents of those caught with alcohol, as they had to pay for their children's flights home. 'They were forced to pay thousands of dollars on top of a $10,000 trip for the students to return home early,' one parent added.
School Response
A spokesperson for The King's School confirmed the incident to the Daily Telegraph, saying, 'Some boys were returned home mid-tour, consistent with the expectations clearly communicated to parents and boys before departure. On the tour's return to school, appropriate consequences have been applied. The school's focus is on their wellbeing and on ensuring they have the opportunity to reflect on their conduct, learn from it, and grow.'
The Daily Mail has reached out to The King's School for further comment but has not received any at the time of publication.
Previous Controversy
This is not the first time The King's School has made headlines. Former headteacher Tony George sued the school after being sacked for allegedly slapping a student in the school hall. The incident, described as a 'clip to the ear,' occurred during a heated Biblical studies discussion. Mr George is now seeking damages, with a hearing set for January 19.
