A grammar school has found itself caught in a row about uniform policy after a petition was launched following hot weather this week.

Simon Langton Girls Grammar School in Canterbury has come under fire by pupils, who are protesting part of the sixth form dress code, which notes that 'strappy' tops should not be worn.

But students at the school say the vests are more comfortable in hot whether and believe the rule is encouraging a 'disturbing sexualisation of young girls' bodies'.

Maddi Lane, the sixth former who set up the petition, said on the page: "Many of the students in the SLGGS sixth form have disagreed with the dress code rule that states girls should not wear strappy or sleeveless tops that reveal shoulders.

"This rule encourages the disturbing sexualisation of young girls' bodies, most of which are underage.

"The argument that shoulders shouldn't be seen in a workplace is irrelevant, as our generation is the future workforce.

"It is our job to change the oppressive and demeaning standards that women are forced to abide by, or nothing will change in the future."

More than 160 people have already signed the petition.

Speaking to the Mail Online, students and teachers offered a mixed response. Year 12 student Fay Gilbert, 17, said: "They don't like it if you wear a top that you see a potential bra strap.

"I signed the petition because I thought I might as well exercise my democratic right. I wore an off shoulder too once and I was told off.

"Not only do you feel sort of sexualised as a person but you feel quite down-hearted. They want you to express your individuality but you can't wear the clothes that you are in to. I feel quite victimised.

"This week it has been particularly hot and we want to wear clothes that will cool us down. They assume our incentive is perverse but it isn't."

Yasmin Shulver, 18, said: "I think it's absolutely ridiculous.

"It's alright for men to wear whatever they want but women can't wear whatever they want. We should be supporting feminism."

Parent Natalie Jones, 46, has a daughter in the lower school but supports the dress code: "As far as my daughter's concerned when the time comes I would probably discourage her from showing too much flesh at school.

"I know we have got to get with the times, but I'm a little bit old fashioned. Sixth form is preparing them for the workplace."

The sixth form section of the school's website states: "As a senior student you are expected to dress appropriately, in a business-like fashion.

"This is a place of work and you should set a good example to younger students.

"Skirts and shorts should be of an appropriate length.

"No strappy/strapless tops or dresses, tracksuit bottoms, over the knee socks that look like stockings."

It also bans hats in school, and notes that very revealing necklines and midriffs are not suitable, and flip flops and high heels are not allowed due to health and safety. It states: "You may be sent home if you do not adhere to the dress code. Thank you for your support with this matter."

Headteacher Dr Matthew Baxter said: "The subject was discussed with the deputy heads and it has been decided that both Langton schools will ensure that the same dress code applies to all students within their sixth form."

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