The Department of Education yesterday confirmed that Thursday’s carnival at Jubilee Park was a “closed event” for students and staff.

While some parents have expressed outrage at the decision, the department said it was necessary in order to provide “appropriate student care”.

Sam Baker, whose son attends Mount Austin, said while she can understand the motivations behind the school’s actions, it’s disappointing for parents. 

“There are so many decent parents out there who want to cheer on their kids and five or six people have ruined it for everyone else,” she said. 

Ms Baker said it may also have been a matter of not having enough staff.

“They probably don’t have enough teachers to keep the bad eggs out,” she said. 

In response, a Department of Education spokesperson said the school was acting in the best interests of its students. 

“This was explained to the small number of parents who visited the carnival, with the vast majority expressing appreciation for the arrangements,” the statement read. 

It remains unclear as to whether the ban will continue for future carnivals.