Basically I'm in year 8 and we had a new science teacher that started at the beginning of September as the other one left. At first he was fine, but this year I have noticed that he has started giving me detentions for no reason for example once he gave me one for spilling my water by accident in the lesson and more recently he gave me one because I hadn't written the title down which was just "Athsma" when I asked him what the date is. And this meant that my form tutor had a go at me for getting lots of science detentions and said if I get another one he'll call my parents. All my form and me know that he genuinely hates me and when I try and tell my form tutor he just agrees with him. I don't know what to do.
Sam
Hello,
Thank you for your letter.
It can be really difficult when we feel someone is treating us unfairly. Teachers can sometimes misunderstand a situation, and as a pupil it can seem you are being treated harshly. Its okay to talk to someone at school if you think things are not fair.
You have every right to fully understand the reasons behind the detentions and perhaps it would be an idea to think about how you could ask him. It may be that you feel closer to a different teacher who could talk to the science teacher for you if you wanted.
It can be daunting and scary thinking about what to say and how to stick up for yourself, but our Asking an adult for help page has lots of tips that could help you.
It might be an idea to think about speaking to your parents yourself before the school gets in touch with them. Letting them know about what is happening at school would show them you are worried and they would have the opportunity to support you.
Your classmates seem to understand how you are feeling, and perhaps you could ask one of them to be with you when you talk to either the science or form teacher. It is very hard to cope with something when we dont fully understand it, and it can feel very isolating. Asking one of your friends to support you may help you to manage it a little easier.
I hope you have found this helpful. ChildLine is always here for you and if you would like to talk about anything, ChildLine counsellors are there to support you.
Take care, Sam
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