School where pupil ‘claimed to identify as a cat’ in huge gender row passes investigation with ‘no serious concerns’
ENGLAND'S education watchdog has "no serious concerns" over an East Sussex school where a teacher scolded a child for questioning a classmate who identified as a cat.
In a new report Ofsted said Rye College fosters a "culture of kindness and mutual support".
Inspector Matthew Haynes, who monitored the school late last month, said teachers "promote debate and manage pupils’ discussions well".
The school was investigated after a secret recording revealed a teacher branding a pupil’s views as “despicable” after she said there were only two genders.
The Year 8 girl had said it was “crazy” one of her classmates could identify as a cat - prompting her furious teacher to say she should move schools.
The row caused an uproar in Westminster, where politicians slammed the teacher over her handling of the issue.
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At the time Rishi Sunak’s spokesman said: “Teachers have a responsibility to encourage their students to engage respectfully with those they disagree with.
“They should also not be teaching contested opinions as fact or shutting down valid discussions and debates.
Even Sir Keir Starmer - who believes women can have penises - drew the line at kids identifying as cats.
Education Secretary Gillian Keegan ordered an urgent probe.
Today, Ofsted declared that at Rye College "pupils recognise that teachers handle challenging conversations effectively".
Mr Haynes said: "Pupils report that teachers help them listen actively to others and reflect deeply.
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"Discrimination of any kind is not tolerated by either leaders or pupils. Any issues are followed up and dealt with robustly.
"Leaders have created a culture of kindness and mutual support in the school."