THE principal of Okehampton College, Mr Herriman, complains in your news item (Times January 13), that he made an offer to talk to anybody about the issue but so far no-one has come forward!
The fact is that I have spoken to him and written to him about the issue many times in the past only to come away with the same old story about lack of money and helplessness.
With respect, this is a Health and Safety issue which the Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents has researched about and the principal has proved to be insensitive to the problems of the pupils he is responsible for.
Leanne Jones illustrated the point admirably for all the pupils of Okehampton College.
Money can and must be found out of better budgeting and negotiations with the Devon County Council. A start could be made on the lines of the scheme at Tavistock College if parents and pupils agree.
System can be improved in future. The issue will not be allowed to go on forever.
Mr Herriman, you can do better.
Cllr Hyder
Ali Pirwany
East Street
Okehampton
YOU published an article last week regarding the need for lockers at Okehampton College.
May I suggest that the pupil pictured, Leanne Jones, and her parents go back to the headteacher Mr Herriman to find out how he came to his financial solution. According to Mr Herriman it would cost £12,000 a year to monitor the lockers.
As my husband is a caretaker covering the whole site of the college for less than £12,000 per year, I'm sure he'd be very interested in how this £12,000 figure was found. Was it £s per metre covered, £s per hour of school day, etc?
If Mr Herriman's figures are correct not only is my husband well under paid (without including the unsocial hours they work), but I'm sure he isn't the only one who'd be interested in a pay rise if the 'job' ever materialises. There are many people who'd do it for less and still get a pay rise!
Leanne, go back to school and carefully check Mr Herriman's maths school book, checking any 'working out' scribbles!
Mrs Y Street
Rose Cottage
North Tawton