11.           Schools, parents and the community have to work together in helping our young imbibe the right values and attitudes and to minimise their exposure to undesirable influences. Schools recognise that students in secondary schools are at an age when they are susceptible to many influences, and some may be tempted to explore pornographic materials. Schools go through considerable effort to address this, including educating and counselling their students, and where necessary disciplining them.

12.           MOE would like to make clear however that where there are disciplinary problems in a school, the Principal has discretion on the actions to be taken. These include counseling the students and disciplining them within the school, which is the course of action taken for most offences. However, depending on the severity of the offence and the willingness of the students involved to cooperate, Principals will sometimes call in the Police. Schools should not be disparaged for doing so, particularly where there is evidence of illegal activity. The Police will decide in such situations if any further action is required. Even when a police report is made, however, schools will continue to counsel the students involved.

13.           All the 17 Kent Ridge Secondary students in question are back in school and have resumed normal lessons. The school is counselling them. MOE will also ensure that the school reviews its internal processes with a view to improving the management of such situations, and will share the lessons learnt with other schools.