A SOUTHAMPTON school has hit back at criticism over the use of a controversial poster.

The poster, entitled 'consequences', illustrates how the loss of a pen can apparently lead to a downward spiral of negative consequences, ultimately leading to depression and death.

An image of the poster, bearing the Bitterne Park School logo was being widely shared on social media yesterday, prompting widespread criticism, branding it "inappropriate" and "disgusting."

However, the school last night issued a statement claiming that the poster was not produced by the school and had not been used in the Copsewood Road school for several months.

A statement suggested the image was being widely shared by "trolls" on social media. 

The statement said: "This 'consequences' message is being deliberately circulated online, but has, in fact, always been available online and shared by young people, and is not a Bitterne Park produced message. 

"The 'consequences' story is, we agree, a challenging one and is intended to invite discussion and debate.

"Promoting resilience has been a learning theme for schools to develop over many years. 

"We have reinforced the message at the start of term to all students about the importance of being prepared for school, having the right equipment and taking responsibility for actions, attitudes and the consequences this can have on learning and life."

The statement goes on to apologise for any offence caused by the poster's message, but added that it was only displayed in "a controlled environment".

Critics of the use of the poster have taken to social media to register their fury.


The school was working with Southampton City Council on safeguarding issues following the death of student Amber Jackson, who died after falling in front of a train.

As previously reported, an inquest into Amber's death heard how her parents had concerns about her using a website where youngsters shared stories, including those relating to self harm and suicide.

Her parents also criticised the school for, in their view, not doing enough to deal with the problem of students accessing the websites whilst Amber was a pupil there.

Bitterne Park said they were working with all parties to address issues that were raised in the inquest, adding that the safety and wellbeing of all students was their highest priority.