Last updated 11:25, Wednesday, 03 December 2008

THERE are questions as to what kind of message the phrase ‘Room 101’ sends out, since it was created originally to represent humiliation and degradation.

George Orwell invented the torture chamber in his classic novel 1984. Whoever went in there never returned.

Room 101 has since been used by TV as a dump for the unwanted. But Carlisle’s academies seem to have adopted the theme – either by design or oversight – to stand for no-nonsense discipline, part of a collection of deterrents to tackle unruly behaviour. Another is the issuing of ‘toilet cards’ to time how long it takes a child to visit the lavatory.

It would be naive to argue school discipline wasn’t necessary. Even more so not to realise much of what we understand as respect is missing in many schools now. But while parents hope for the best possible learning environment for their children, concerns are expressed as to the motivation in a regime written around the influence of a seriously misbehaving minority.

The academies aim to be forward-looking, life-enhancing centres of education, working to bring out the best in youth. Aspiration, self-esteem, encouragement and discipline will always be at the centre of that empowerment.

But there’s responsibility too and that starts at home. Where that fails, no school can guarantee correction – whatever its rules.