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95 pupils sent home for wearing 'wrong shoes'
NINETY five pupils were sent home from school for wearing the wrong type of shoes.
Teachers at Highfield Humanities College in South Shore, Blackpool, turned pupils away yesterday as part of a crackdown on ballet-style pumps and trainers.
Although around 50 per cent of the students made it back, those without suitable alternative footwear were forced to stay at home for the day – much to the anger of their parents.
School bosses said 23 pupils have been injured because of "unsuitable" footwear in the last year – mostly from tripping.
But some parents say the school is being "petty" and has its priorities wrong.
Highfield headteacher Ian Evans today defended the school's decision.
He said: "We've been working with parents to make sure children are coming to school in safe, suitable footwear.
"I'm pleased with the level of support we've been given - the majority of parents understand our viewpoint.
"The children have not been excluded in any way.
FOR MORE ON THIS STORY, SEE TUESDAY'S GAZETTE Ninety five were asked in registration to go home and change their shoes and come straight back.
“Our records show 23 children suffered injuries to their feet and ankles last year and this seems to relate to their choice of footwear.
“We do not want anyone to miss out on lessons but their safety is paramount and it’s important pupils come to school properly dressed.”
Mr Evans says an agreement has been reached with the “vast majority” of parents as to the time scale to replace children’s unsuitable footwear.
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Weather for Blackpool
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 14 C to 20 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: North west
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 23 C
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