A Darlington secondary school has come under fire for sticking to much of its uniform policy as temperatures are set to rise above 30c next week.
Parents have approached The Northern Echo to say their requests for children at Hummersknott Academy in Darlington have been so far refused.
They claim they have asked school bosses if children can wear their P.E Kits to school instead to keep them cool.
One "livid" parent said: "There's a pretty big row going on, the school are insisting on long trousers and tights next week for the kids in the heatwave.
"Parents have asked for P.E kits and they've refused."
It comes as temperatures are set to soar over the coming days as The Met Office has issued its first red warning for “extreme heat" and an amber warning for the region.
Read more: Hot weather LIVE: Met Office issues red warning for extreme heat for first time
James Keating, Executive Principal at Hummersknott Academy, defended the school's position and said it had already introduced changes.
He said: “Following discussions with other schools across Darlington, we have taken a balanced, flexible and consistent approach to the school uniform policy during the forecast hot weather.
“Ties and blazers do not have to be worn and we will be giving out free bottles of water to pupils at lunchtime, with extra bottles available if they are needed, in addition to water fountains around school and water dispensers in the food halls.
“We are also revising PE activities during the hot period to minimise exertion and exposure to the sun, while every classroom is monitored for temperature.
“We appreciate the concerns expressed by some parents and have responded to those individually. However, at the same time, we have a health and safety responsibility to make sure that pupils’ skin is sufficiently protected from the effects of the sun.”
Read more: 'Please get help': Darlington wife's plea after dad-of-five's tragic death at 47
A number of schools in the North East have relaxed their uniform policy during the hot weather, including Stokesley School in North Yorkshire.
In a message last Sunday (July 10), Stokesley School said: “Due to extremely high temperatures predicted on Monday all students can come in their PE kit. Please wear sun cream and bring plenty of water.”
Outwood Academy Aklam in Middlesbrough has also temporarily updated its uniform policy during the hot weather. Pupils have been advised to carry their blazers instead of having to wear them.
The Met office has issued a red weather warning for Sunday (July 17) through to Tuesday (July 19) as temperatures are set to rise to 34 degrees C on Tuesday in Darlington and much of England.
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