Parents of Muslim schoolgirl threatened with legal action after her skirt was ‘too long’

A school has sparked outrage after reportedly threatening the parents of a Muslim schoolgirl with legal action after repeatedly sending their child home because her skirt was deemed to be "too long".

Siham Hamud, 12, said she felt bullied for her religious beliefs after being told to go home and only return to school when she put on a shorter skirt every day in December.

The pupil of Uxbridge High School in Middlesex refused to do so and the education institution has now threatened her parents with legal action over Hamud’s alleged unauthorised absences.

Uxbridge High School said girls should wear branded black trousers or a black pleated skirt from official uniform providers.

The family said she was sent home to change from her ankle-length skirt every day for the three weeks of term in December, but chose not to go back each time so as not to be forced to wear a shorter skirt.

The 12-year-old, who is currently studying at home during lockdown, said she had to catch up on the schoolwork she missed.

Her father Idris Hamud added short skirts contravene the family’s religious beliefs and claimed that his daughter was being denied an education because of this.

He said the issue is due to be talked about at an upcoming complaints panel with the school governors.

Last month, her parents were sent a letter which stated unauthorised absences may result in a fine or legal action, which could include a penalty notice or a summons to the magistrates court.

Social media users hit out at the school’s stance.

The school’s principal, Nigel Clemens, told other outlets: “This matter is currently subject to examination through the formal school complaints policy. It would therefore not be appropriate to comment further at this time.”