Southchurch High School sent an email to parents and carers informing them pupils will only be able to use the toilet during lesson times if they have a letter from a medical professional.

The school has defended its policy, insisting this will help prevent disruption during lessons.

But the decision has left one father, who has a daughter and son at the school, furious.

He has slammed the policy as "not even remotely reasonable" and pointed out "older girls, for obvious reasons, can’t always help when they need to go the toilet".

Read more >>> Pupils at Southend school banned from using toilets during lessons to avoid 'disruption'

The email sent to parents by the school asked them to encourage their child to use the toilets before tutor time and at breaks.

It advised: “From Tuesday, June 28, only those students with a toilet pass which has been issued by the medical officer, on receipt of a letter from a medical professional, will be allowed to go to the toilet during their lessons.

“These students will use the toilets near the admin office and will be let in on request.”

In response to criticism from parents, acting deputy headteacher, Mrs Murray, said the decision has been made to "avoid disruption to learning".

“Students are issued with passes if they have medical reasons", she said.

“Our medical officer issues temporary passes to older girls or other students that may require them on the day. Teachers will also use common sense.

“The very few parents who have contacted the school, concerned about the message sent out yesterday, have all received, or are in the process of receiving, a call back.

“The first day of operation has gone smoothly with no issues.”

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