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Jewish school fined after pupil fell during ‘dangerous’ mountain hike
Court hears how teachers led boys wearing school shoes or trainers up Lake District peak
February 18, 2022 16:05
Court hears how teachers led boys wearing school shoes or trainers up Lake District peak
February 18, 2022 16:05An Orthodox Jewish School has been fined £30,000 after a pupil fell several metres during a “dangerous”, ill-equipped hike up England’s third highest peak.
Gateshead Cheder took a group of Year 10 pupils on a school trip up mountain Helvellyn in the English Lake District in March 2020 despite icy conditions.
Newcastle Magistrates’ Court heard the 13 pupils were led by a teacher and teaching assistant with no formal mountaineering training.
The court was told many wore school shoes or trainers rather than mountain boots and the group did not have proper climbing or safety equipment, relying on a map and compass phone app.
They reached the summit despite several warnings from passers-by they should turn back.
One pupil slid on the ice and fell several metres, sustaining minor injuries, and the group had to be brought back to safety by a rescue team.
A second pupil however left the group in a panic after the incident and was later found by members of the public.
The school pleaded guilty to two counts of breaching the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and must also pay a victim surcharge of £181 and costs of £4,574.
Stephen Garner, of the Health and Safety Executive, a national regulator for workplace health and safety, said those who took part “were placed in serious danger”.
He said: “On this occasion, none of the party came to serious harm, however, the school were aware of the weather and ground conditions, but decided to proceed without the appropriate planning, equipment, or suitably trained leaders.
“Those taking part in the trek that day were placed in serious danger and there was a clear failing by the school to adopt sensible precautions to ensure their safety.
“Excursions into mountains, particularly in winter, need to be led by people with the appropriate skills, knowledge and experience.”
A spokesperson for the school told the JC: “The health and safety of our pupils and staff is always of the utmost importance. We have clear and robust safety measures in place but, on this occasion we appreciate that mistakes were made. As such, we fully accept the Court’s judgement. We have conducted a thorough investigation into what happened two years ago and have made a number improvements to our health and safety policy and practice. This includes a thorough review of our risk assessment policies and procedures."