A student rebel at Clarendon College caused a stir by demanding access to water during class. The school had implemented a policy of not allowing water bottles in classrooms, citing reduced noise and fewer restroom breaks as positive results. Despite this, the school ensured that students would not go thirsty by providing ample opportunities throughout the day to drink water. Victorian government guidelines recommend specific daily water intake amounts for children based on their age and gender.
The school also expressed concerns about younger learners struggling to carry all their books in their bags, leading to an attachment to large water bottles like the Stanley Quencher 2.0 Tumbler. This 900ml bottle, sold for $70 at David Jones, is described as stylish, comfortable to carry, and made of recycled stainless steel. It is seen as a fashionable but potentially problematic accessory for students. As an alternative, Kmart offers a 960ml Pink Double Wall Insulated Cylinder Drink Bottle for just $15, providing a more affordable option for students.
Perhaps the student rebel’s inspiration came from the college’s recent production of Oliver!, a classic tale about a boy who asked for more gruel. The absence of water bottles in classrooms may have reminded the student of Oliver’s act of defiance. Clarendon College emphasized the positive outcomes of their water bottle policy, such as improved classroom climate and student focus. The school ensured that students would have sufficient opportunities throughout the day to stay hydrated despite the restrictions.
Victorian government guidelines recommend specific daily water intake amounts for children to maintain their health and well-being. The school’s concerns about students carrying heavy bags filled with books reflect a common issue among young learners. The attachment to large water bottles like the Stanley Quencher 2.0 Tumbler is seen as part of the problem, with the bottle’s stylish design and expensive price tag potentially contributing to students’ reluctance to part with them. Affordable alternatives like the Pink Double Wall Insulated Cylinder Drink Bottle from Kmart offer a more budget-friendly option for students.
Overall, the situation at Clarendon College highlights the importance of balancing student needs for hydration and comfort with practical considerations such as noise levels and classroom disruptions. By providing alternative options and ensuring that students have access to water throughout the day, the school aims to promote a healthy and productive learning environment for all students. The debate over water bottle policies and student preferences underscores the complex interplay between practicality, style, and affordability in educational settings.
