Teenager alleges his teacher asked whether he was trying to imitate the 2001 terrorists when he wore the attire to a school sport day deemed ‘free dress’

This article is more than 5 years old

This article is more than 5 years old

A Muslim high school student in Brisbane has claimed his teacher asked him if he were trying to imitate 9/11 attackers when he wore Islamic garb to a school sports day.

The Islamic Council of Queensland is considering lodging a complaint with the Queensland anti-discrimination commissioner over the treatment allegedly meted out to the 16-year-old boy at Runcorn state high school in the city’s south last Thursday.

ICQ spokesman Ali Kadri said the alleged slur on the teenager – who had worn a long Islamic gown over his sports uniform at an event deemed “free dress” – and the school’s response were both unacceptable.

The boy and his family have alleged his teacher asked him whether he was trying to imitate those involved in the 2001 US terrorist attacks by wearing the clothing item.

The student was sent to school principal Roger Atkins, who told him he was dressed inappropriately and sent the student home to get changed.

Kadri said Atkins had conceded in a meeting with ICQ representatives after the incident that “in hindsight he should have done things differently”.

But Atkins has denied the teacher made the comment. The school has refused the ICQ’s request for a letter of apology to the family.

Kadri said the teenager would provide his account of the incident in a complaint to state anti-discrimination commissioner Kevin Cocks.

A spokesman for the Queensland education department said it was “aware of a complaint arising from free dress day at Runcorn state high school”.

“As a consequence, the principal is working with the family, school community and cultural leaders to ensure all concerns are resolved,” he said.

“The school wants to ensure all students feel accepted and supported at school.”

Atkins did not return a message to call from Guardian Australia.