School in England Removes Mirrors from Toilets to Encourage Students to Attend Classes

A school in England has decided to remove all mirrors from its toilets, arguing that students are spending excessive time there instead of attending lessons.

Reason Behind the Decision
Grant Edgar, headteacher of William Farr Comprehensive School in Welton, explained that mirrors often encourage students to gather in large groups, which can make some students feel uncomfortable and contribute to delays in reaching lessons, according to a report by BBC.

Mixed Reactions from Parents
The decision has sparked mixed reactions among parents, with some calling it “silly,” “a bit extreme,” and “strange.” One parent told BBC, “They’re just mirrors, aren’t they? We have mirrors at home, so why can’t we have them in school?”

Alternative Solution for Students
Mr. Edgar assured that students who require a mirror for medical reasons can request one at the school reception.

Similar Cases in Other Schools
This is not the first time a school has removed mirrors.

• In January 2024, a middle school in North Carolina removed bathroom mirrors due to students spending excessive time making TikTok videos in restrooms.
• In 2023, Christopher Whitehead Language College in Worcester replaced mirrors in girls’ toilets with posters warning that make-up is a “harmful drug” that makes women “feel ugly”, as reported by Daily Mail.

The decision by William Farr Comprehensive School continues to spark debate among parents and students, raising questions about the balance between discipline and student comfort.