Bearsden Primary School in Dunbartonshire, Scotland, has banned pupils in Primary 4 to 7 from playing the popular playground game 'tig,' also known as 'tag' or 'it.' The decision, which allows younger pupils in Primary 1 to 3 to continue playing, has been met with widespread criticism.
The head teacher informed parents via a letter that the game was too 'rough' and that there had been 'a level of concern' due to children getting hurt. The school plans to work with older pupils to establish rules for safer play.
"It doesn’t make sense to me to ban a whole game because of the actions of a few," one parent stated, calling the ban a "farce." They argued that the behavior of a few should be addressed directly rather than punishing all students.
Scottish Conservative education spokeswoman Meghan Gallacher MSP described the ban as "absurd," suggesting it reflects a trend where "headteachers are having to ban games and stopping children having fun at playtime, rather than dealing with real issues in their schools." The Scottish Conservatives labeled the development 'absurd.'
The game of tig has a long history, with references dating back to ancient Greece. The school's Chief Education Officer, Greg Bremner, confirmed the temporary ban for older pupils, stating that teachers would collaborate with students to develop rules ensuring safety and well-being during playtime. He emphasized that the health and safety of all pupils is a priority.