PARENTS and pupils of a school Harrow Weald braved the freezing cold weather on Tuesday to protest against a ban on earrings.
About 50 people gathered at the entrance to Cedars Manor Primary School, in Whittlesea Road, to demand that teachers overturn the ban, which they say was imposed without warning or any discussion with them.
Some children have complained that taking their earrings out every day before going to school is causing them severe discomfort.
Tracey Falcon, whose sons Patrick, 10, and Kieran, 11, had their ears pierced aged five, said: "My children shouldn't be frightened to go to school, and not be worried the teachers are going to have a go at them for it.
"There was no policy against earrings when my children started school, not even for PE, so we didn't think it would be a problem, but then we got a newsletter saying they weren't allowed to wear them.
"We don't think it's fair. "Patrick's ear has closed up because he has to keep taking it out."
Since the ban was introduced a year ago, parents have started a petition and it has so far been signed by 214 people. However, it has been unsuccessful in overturning the ban.
Headteacher Heather Lace responded to this week's protest by pledging to consult them.
"The school's governing body introduced a ban on jewellery as very young children were wearing earrings to school but unable to take them out for PE lessons," she said. "For safety reasons children are unable to take part in PE when wearing earrings because they could catch on other children's clothing. This is in line with many schools across the country.
"Following objections from several parents, a consultation will be launched in the new year, when we will ask parents to tell us their views."
Ms Falcon said parents had previously offered to sign a disclaimer saying the earrings would be their responsibility.
"Patrick used to do boxing and taekwondo wearing those earrings and there was no problem. Children should not be made to take them out. I don't know any parents who support this ban."
