Colchester school scraps its no-contact ban and lets pupils 'dap' — but 'bone squashing' is still banned

Parents reported that pupils at Philip Morant School and College faced detentions for embracing or high-fiving friends under the policy, which came into force at the start of term. A petition opposing the ban attracted more than 350 signatures. On Monday the school published a five-page slideshow outlining permitted forms of physical contact, from handshakes through to fist bumps. All greetings now require the agreement of both pupils involved.

Head teacher Stephanie Neill attributed the original ban to 'overly physical behaviour last term'.

Physical contact remains prohibited inside classrooms and must not cause pupils to be late.

Tripping up and 'birthday bumps' are still strictly forbidden.