Parents are often given a consent form to sign for school activities.

At times, this form is accompanied by an 'indemnity form' in which we waive responsibility for the school or the private entrepreneur it engages if an accident befalls our child during an event. We sign them in good faith, hoping that our children are in good hands. This is not always the case as reported school outings involving camping, riverine and hiking expeditions gone awry will testify.

It may be more challenging, but schools should provide safer activities which achieve the same learning experience for the students. It is no consolation for the family to know that 'despite safety precautions, accidents are inevitable''. Any element of danger should be eliminated before an activity takes place because children are fully dependent on adults for their safety in these instances.

It is unfair to place children in these situations if complete care and total responsibility is not in place. Activities with any element of danger should not be conducted and teachers in charge should be more aware of the dangers and take a more active role in preventing accidents.

If a child feels uncomfortable performing a task or outdoor activity, he or she should not be penalised but be given the option to decline.

More often than not, the children feel compelled to perform because of peer pressure, or because they do not wish to inconvenience their teachers.

It was indeed fortunate for all the students mentioned in the letter, that civic-minded and responsible parents stepped in to prevent a potential accident from occurring.

Susan Veronica Yeo (Mrs)

WAIVER FORMS

'We sign them in good faith, hoping that our children are in good hands. This is not always the case.'