Children fought off plans to bring in a uniform in 2001

The mass walkout was planned by pupils at the Trinity School in Royal Leamington Spa after the head teacher announced there would be a uniform for the first time in nearly 30 years.

Pupils, backed by many parents, believe a uniform will go against the school's ethos of individualism.

The school attempted to impose a uniform two years ago, but the measure was not implemented after similar student protests.

'Very sad'

Speaking during Wednesday's protest outside the school one female pupil said: "I don't agree with trying to bring a uniform in.

"I believe it goes against the individual ethos of the school.

"I think it will change the levels of respect in the school.

"At the moment we all respect each other and can see each other as individuals."

Children should be led to consider for themselves what sort of behaviour is acceptable A quotation from the school's statement of ethos

But the school has confirmed in letters to parents that a uniform, consisting of white shirt, black blazer, with black trousers or a skirt, will be compulsory from next year.

Head teacher Monica Cotterell said: "I don't think it will make pupils any less individual by putting them in a uniform.

"I think it's very sad that people think the ethos of the school is based on the fact that we don't have any uniform."

The school's ethos, as set out on a statement on its website, says: "We recognise and affirm the value of each pupil, irrespective of their various gifts, needs and abilities.

"Children are unique individuals, equal in the sight of God, with all the rights, liberty and dignity of humankind, irrespective of gender, ethnic origin and belief."

The statement adds: "Children should be led to consider for themselves - in a rational, social and autonomous way - what sort of behaviour is acceptable.