Another Bradford secondary school has banned skirts from its school uniform after losing patience with rising hemlines.

The fashion sense of some girls attending Immanuel College, Thackley, has proven too offensive for teachers’ liking.

In a statement provided to the Telegraph & Argus, head teacher Jane Tiller said the inappropriately-short length of skirts worn by some pupils contradicted the school’s “safe” ethos.

She said: “The caring ethos of Immanuel College is one that promotes equality and inclusion amongst our students and keeps them safe.

“Our school uniform is designed to support that ethos and to be practical, smart and sensible in a work environment where the teaching and learning of the students is of paramount importance.”

It is understood that parents only found out about the ban in a letter they received on Thursday.

One parent, who did not want to be named, called the decision “heavy handed” and questioned the timing of the announcement.

He said: “I received a letter on Thursday night from governors and the head teacher saying that from next year all girls are banned from wearing skirts.

“To ban skirts under the embrace of safeguarding is ludicrious.

“It’s punishing the majority for the stupidity of the minority.

“Why have they left it until the day before the school shuts down for the summer to announce this? Parents have gone out and bought skirts for their children for next year.”

A spokesman for school support services firm Education Bradford said schools could change their school uniform as they saw fit and did not have to request permission from nor notify Bradford Council about any changes.

The Telegraph & Argus has reported that Bingley Grammar banned its pupils from wearing skirts. It was believed to be the first school in the district to take the measure, in September 2009.

Earlier this week Guiseley School announced to parents that skirts were banned.