Pupils and local councillors in the Derry City and Strabane area are calling for clearer school policies on toilet access during lessons.

Members of the North West Youth Ministry raised the issue at a youth engagement event, stating that rules vary widely between schools and that some pupils face delays or must provide medical notes.

Year 10 pupil Kayla said the policy felt like collective punishment for a few students, while Ben noted that double-period classes lasting an hour can make waiting difficult.

Sinn Féin councillor Emma McGinley brought a motion to the council after receiving reports from parents, including one case where a pupil with kidney issues had to present a doctor's note each time.

McGinley highlighted concerns for students managing menstruation or conditions such as endometriosis and called for pupils to be granted the same autonomy adults have in workplaces.

Graham Gault of the National Association of Head Teachers said policies are meant to protect learning and safety but acknowledged the need to treat pupils with dignity.

Teacher Brian Banks at Hazelwood College said his school allows access except during the first and last five minutes of class, keeping records to monitor patterns while avoiding strict restrictions.

The Education Authority stated that managing toilet access is a matter for individual schools, which must balance behaviour, safeguarding and individual health needs.