Philip Morant School in Colchester has announced it will review its 'no physical contact' rule, which has drawn criticism from parents.
The policy, introduced at the start of term, has reportedly led to pupils receiving detentions for actions such as hugging or high-fiving friends, according to parents.
Head teacher Stephanie Neill stated the rule was put in place following "an increase in overly physical behaviour last term that disrupted learning and raised safety concerns." She added that the school is now working with student leaders to "define appropriate, consensual guidelines" and plans to modify behaviour expectations later this term.
An online petition raised concerns that the rule removed "normal, consensual physical interaction" and impacted students' emotional wellbeing.