A Primary School has defended its decision to withdraw the use of its field from Deal and Betteshanger Rugby Club saying its first duty is towards its own pupils.

For eight years, Deal Parochial School has had a “gentlemen’s agreement” with the club allowing juniors to train on its grounds on a Sunday when they wouldn’t otherwise be used.

The school in Gladstone Road made a decision last month to terminate the agreement from Friday, May 22, to allow it to make better use of its outdoor facilities.

Head teacher Justine Brown declined to comment as she did not want the issue to become personal. However, a spokesman for Kent County Council said: “The school’s first duty is quite clearly towards its own pupils.

“In line with Ofsted guidelines, it wants to make better use of its outdoor facilities. In consultation with the PTA, governors, teaching staff and pupils, it has produced a plan for the field.

“This includes an amphitheatre for performances, reading groups, and recitals for parents and pupils. There will also be a wild flower meadow, and small groupings of fruit trees and nut trees. This can be achieved with very little financial cost.”

The spokesman added: “The head teacher had a meeting with David Storrie, from the rugby club, and explained the situation several weeks ago.

“He gave no indication that the club would be inconvenienced to the point where it felt the need to go public with the issue.

“The school gave one month’s notice in writing believing that, in the absence of a contract, it was sufficient, especially as the rugby season has ended.

“The club has not responded to the school’s letter or outlined the implications for its rugby tournament. We are disappointed that the club has gone to the media, rather than enter into any dialogue with the school.

“Because the rugby club has lacked the courtesy of responding to the school, it is unaware that the head teacher has negotiated alternative facilities for its youth training at another school.”

To sign a petition to challenge the school’s decision to remove access to the rugby club, visit http://tinyurl.com/nhdfzpf