Dear Sir/Madam,
My name is Peetron Thomas, I am 30 years old, and I am a second-year music production student at the Harrison Centre, pursuing my dream of becoming a music producer and entertainment professional.
On October 1, 2025, I experienced a situation at the Harrison Centre that highlights a serious problem in the school’s policies regarding student entry and access to education.
That morning, I attempted several times to call the school to inform Student Affairs that I would be arriving later than usual due to an unavoidable emergency. While the school does have a phone line, the challenge, which all students, teachers, and parents can testify to, is that more than 85 percent of the time, the school phone is not working, and calls are rarely answered efficiently. Unfortunately, my calls went unanswered, leaving me no alternative to communicate my delay.
I arrived at the school gate at 9:28 a.m. but was denied entry by security, who stated that no student is allowed on the premises after 8:30 a.m. Despite explaining my situation and waiting during an on-campus emergency, I was still instructed to go home. Accompanying me were other students who were also sent home. It pained me to see these young people being denied education simply for being late, especially knowing that some are vulnerable to substance abuse and crime. Denying them this opportunity increases idle time and discourages them from pursuing their goals, dreams, and education.
Student Affairs brought my situation to Ms. Weste, the Director/Principal of the Harrison Centre, but she personally denied my entry, enforcing the rigid “no entry after 8:30” policy. When I requested that this instruction be provided in writing, I was not given any documentation and was simply told to leave and return the following day. This is unacceptable. Students deserve transparency, fairness, and proper procedures when being denied access to education.
A strict “no entry after 8:30” policy is unreasonable in any form of tertiary education, and especially at a trade school where students are seeking practical skills and life opportunities. Policies like this not only waste potential but actively put students at risk.
Proposed Solutions:
- Introduce a system where students can submit a written excuse or report explaining the reason for lateness.
- Encourage leadership to evaluate these circumstances fairly rather than enforcing a blanket “no entry” rule.
- Respect adult students as responsible individuals and provide them the opportunity to continue their education even when unforeseen delays occur.
- Ensure that instructions regarding denial of entry are documented in writing to maintain transparency and accountability.
I am sharing this letter publicly because I strongly believe in human rights, student rights, and the importance of treating young adults with dignity and fairness. As a society, this is not only a matter of rules and discipline but also a question of humanity. Many students face challenges that require understanding and guidance rather than being sent home. Measures need to be put in place to address these situations constructively, ensuring that students can continue their education and develop their trade and life skills. It is vital for the public and media to be aware of these practices so that positive change can be implemented, allowing students to fully benefit from the opportunities the Harrison Centre offers.
Respectfully,
~Mr. Peetron Thomas
Music Production Student
Harrison Centre