More than 30 pupils were sent home from Pent Valley Technology College today and yesterday for wearing incorrect uniform.

Parents are angered that pupils are being sent home in just the second week of term claiming that a lack of notice was given over uniform rules.

Headteacher Mario Citro confirmed that as a result of a focus on uniform they had sent 35 pupils home to change their uniform.

A letter was sent home at the start of last week reminding parents of the uniform policy.

But some parents were angry that was not enough notice to buy new uniform that conformed with the guidelines.

Chief among the complaints is that pupils must have plain black trainers and only black or white socks.

Parent Ricky Graham said: “The problem is two days before my child went back we got a letter with all the new uniform requirements, why did they not send this letter out at the end of the term?

“Many parents had already bought all the clothing for the new term. Times must be changing because when I was at school I still learnt exactly the same regardless of what colour shoes or coat I had on.”

Mr Citro responded by saying that the letter went out in the first week acting as a reminder to parents, who had also been notified in another letter at the end of term in July about what was acceptable.

He added: “It was the same last year and the year before and the year before that.”

The first week of term was a “time to settle” but events on Monday were part of a “regular focus” on uniform and sending pupils home was a “complete last resort”.

In January, Ofsted recognised pupil behaviour as one of Pent Valley’s strong areas.

Mr Citro said: “Part of that is about maintaining good standards, an environment and an ethos.”

It comes a week after 60 pupils were sent home from The North School in Ashford on the very first day of term.

More of the debate to come in the Folkestone edition of the Kentish Express out on Thursday.

What do you think? Has your child been sent home from Pent Valley?

Contact us on 01233 895801, email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk or write to Kentish Express, 34-36 North Street, Ashford, TN24 8JR.