Bundaberg Christian College principal Mark Bensley said corporal punishment had become a drawcard for some parents because of a “lack of boundaries” at other schools.
“A growing number of parents come to our school and say the school got their attention because it uses the paddle,” Mr Bensley said.
“If they choose to not sign it (the waiver), they are not refused enrolment. But a very significant majority of parents sign because they like that we understand the need for boundaries, fairness and consistency.”
Mr Bensley said the plastic paddle – shaped like a table-tennis bat – was a “last resort” when suspensions, detentions and warnings had failed.