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Student told not to bring same-sex date to formal

Headmaster says same-sex date is against school "traditions". Photo: Facebook

A student at an all boys Anglican school in Queensland has been advised against bringing a male date to his Year 12 Formal.

The headmaster of Anglican Church Grammar School, Dr. Alan Campbell, said the unnamed student “sought advice” on his intended date, ahead of the June dance.

Dr. Campbell suggested that bringing a male date was against “school tradition” and that the student would miss an important opportunity to “mix and mingle” with girls.

“It was the school’s recommendation and strong preference that they [the students] bring a young lady” Dr. Campbell said.

“We want young men to learn from and interact with young ladies so these opportunities are very important in providing a well-rounded education” he added.

However the headmaster has agreed to let the student bring his “guest of choice”, despite recommendations to the contrary.

“I think in the end, it really is a decision that a young man should make with his parents and his family” Dr. Campbell said.

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Anglican Church Grammar School is just one of many religious schools that advise their students against same-sex dating.

Executive Director of the Queensland Catholic Education Commission Mike Byrne believes Catholic schools should also model behaviors and develop policies in keeping with the church.

Yet Queensland’s Anti-Discrimination Commissioner Kevin Cocks is urging schools should to wary of these kinds of policies and their potential to result in illegal discrimination.

“In general, I would encourage schools to be inclusive and be supportive of students at this very difficult time of their life.” Mr. Cocks said.

“It’s an important ritual … where students often like to celebrate with their friends and their loved ones if they are in a relationship.”

Morning news break – March 6