THE parents of a 14-year old boy are fuming after he was refused admittance to school for not having a badge on his blazer.

They have branded the action "ludicrous" after Dale Callaghan and another pupil were turned away from Philips High School in Whitefield on Thursday (Sept 30).

However, headteacher Mr Chris Trees said the action was "reasonable" and insisted that the families had been given several opportunities to comply with the uniform code.

Dale's mum, Diane, fumed: "It is just pathetic. He has not committed any crime, died his hair green or gone to school in trainers.

"We did try to get a badge at the start of term but the shop had sold out and I never got round to it. I would have done but I did not realize it was a crime not to have a badge on a blazer."

She said she agreed with school uniform but added: "I think the school has gone overboard, especially in view of the fact that pupils have been warned about people hanging about the school and approaching children.

"Then he goes and sends my son home. I am seriously considering taking my son away from the school."

Blazers have been phased in at the Higher Lane school over several years. The badge, adopted from the Stand Grammar School's, depicts the cross of the Knights of St John and the motto "we are prepared to serve" in Latin.

Mr Trees said the school had not been irresponsible as two pupils living in the same area had gone home together. He pointed out that supply problems with the badge had been resolved and that Mr and Mrs Callaghan, of Rectory Lane, Radcliffe, had been "asked and asked to comply",

"I have no time for newspapers that criticize us for declining standards and then make merry when parents complain," he said. "Parents send their pupils to this school because we have a uniform. I think it is a sensible approach and one which most parents appreciate.

"It makes every child equal. The school uniform takes the pressure off parents and puts everyone on the same footing - rich or poor.

"It is a matter of pride in what you are a part off and that is what the badge is about." He added: "There has to be a point where those that are co-operating with us sense this is appreciated and that we are prepared to act when someone isn't prepared to co-operate."

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