Buderim Mountain State School announces candy cane ban

Outraged parents have taken to social media to share their anger over a Sunshine Coast primary school’s decision to ban candy canes. Here’s why the decision was taken. HAVE YOUR SAY IN OUR POLL

A Sunshine Coast school has sparked controversy over the decision to ban students from handing out candy canes with Christmas cards this year.

Buderim Mountain State School emailed parents asking them not to send children to school with the sugary sweets due to concerns over “students health and wellbeing.”

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“In past years we have asked students to put the candy canes away and only eat them when they arrive home and have parental permission,” the email read.

“However we have found that the temptation was too much and they would eat them during the day.”

The letter also made reference to dental hygiene, sugar intake and behavioural issues associated with the traditional supply of candy canes.

The school’s decision quickly drew criticism online, with many taking to social media to express their outrage.

Buderim Mountain State School has taken the decision to ask children not to bring candy canes to school this year.

Belinda Andrews commented on Facebook pointing out the school was continuing to celebrate fairy bread day.

“Seriously! It is Christmas! Let kids enjoy it because without kids Christmas is nothing. No difference between the candy canes and fairy bread! Both hype kids up!”

A spokesperson from the Department of Education said the school reports parents have welcomed the decision.

“There is no departmental policy regarding students handing out candy canes at school and there is no ban on candy canes at Buderim Mountain State School,” they said.

“The school has received numerous messages of support, and no complaints, from parents and caregivers about a message that encouraged limiting the distribution of candy canes among students for health and dental reasons, as well as being in line with the wishes of carers who determine the types of food and drinks their children can consume.”