Parents warned after schoolgirl is ruthlessly bullied over 'unique' name
Parents have been issued a stern warning after it emerged that a young schoolgirl named Angle was being mercilessly taunted by her peers due to her 'unique' moniker. Despite teachers' efforts to halt the mockery, whispers and chuckles persist behind the girl's back.
A concerned individual took to Reddit to spread awareness, revealing: "My sister (currently in college in the Netherlands) mentioned to me today that one of her classmates is named 'Angle' (pronounced Angel). She says her mother made a spelling mistake, because she doesn't speak any English, but only later found out and decided not to change it, because she liked Angle better." Tragically, the girl endures ridicule and is frequently called hoek, translating to 'corner' in Dutch.
The post continued: "She is relentlessly bullied by everyone. Every time her name comes up and is being called out loud, the teachers pronounce it as it is written. I feel bad for the poor kid.."
Highlighting the potential consequences of unconventional naming, the social media user implored parents to meticulously verify spellings before finalising their child's birth certificate.
In response to the tale, one commenter confessed: "Once I encountered a Kristle instead of Crystal. I think about it sometimes how it reminded me of Gristle."
Yet another chimed in: "Their entire lives, everyone they meet will think their parents didn't know how to spell it and tried to sound it out."
The debate sparked a range of reactions, with one person commenting: "So many people picking names forget it isn't about them, it is about the small person who has to live with the name. And spell it out then explain it over and over and over and.."
A third user joked: "How good a student is Angle? Is she... obtuse?".
Another user pointed out: "Your sister is in college, so her classmate isn't a 'kid'. Adults can change their name, and this one would just look like a spelling error once it's done."
A fellow commenter shared: "My mother-in-law used to always post about my child on Facebook writing, 'Grandma's little angle'. I still find it hilarious. As a name, it's a travesty."
In England, people can change their name legally at 16, while those aged under 16 require a parent or guardian to execute the change on their behalf, and if applicable with both parents' consent.
The UK saw an estimated 85,000 name changes via deed poll in 2015. The top motivations included not liking one's given name, unusual or tricky spelling, and as part of getting married or divorced.
Some changed their name to give it a more English feel, others to express a new gender identity, and a few to prevent an ex-partner from finding them.
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