The principal of Al Taqwa College in Victoria says female students are encouraged to participate in “all activities,” after a a media report claimed the school banned girls from running out of concerns they could lose their virginity.
The Fairfax Media report quoted a letter of complaint about the alleged discrimination by a former teacher.
"The principal believes that there is scientific evidence to indicate that if girls injure themselves, such as break their leg while playing soccer, it could render them infertile," the letter reportedly said.
College principal Omar Hallak told SBS in a statement that this information was incorrect.
"Contrary to reports in the media, female students at Al-Taqwa College participate in all range of sporting activities such as track and field (including running over a range of distances, long jump, high jump, shot put, discus, athletics), basketball, cricket, hockey, tennis and netball," he said.
"Female students at Al-Taqwa College participate in all range of sporting activities."
"Other recreational activities on camps include low rope climbing, bush walking, archery, golf, volleyball and table tennis, as well as other indoor and outdoor activities. Girls are encouraged to participate in all activities, with participation subject to parental consent.
"We do not believe that running excessively may cause female students to lose their virginity or that sporting injuries could render them infertile."
Victoria's schools regulator is investigating the reports and Mr Hallak told SBS it would be inappropriate to comment further while the investigation was under way.
Education Minister James Merlino has told 3AW the reports were worrying.
"If true these are very concerning reports and I have asked the VRQA to investigate and report back to me," Mr Merlino said.
- With AAP
