Hugh Reilly: Tie-break question: should pupils still be told to get knotted?

IN 2009, no pupils have died as a result of either their school tie catching fire in the science lab, or being caught in equipment. This grim statistic has spurred schools managements across the country into action. According to the Schoolwear Association, some ten schools a week in the UK are replacing the traditional knotted tie with a clip-on version.

OK, so no kids have perished, but this is not the time for schools to become complacent. As a classroom teacher responsible for the welfare of my pupils, I am acutely aware that every time a child enters my room wearing a tie, it is potentially a li...