SIR: I felt I had to write after reading the story of the mother claiming that 'Hayward' didn't want her son in school because he has special needs, and they were using his uniform as an excuse to send him home.

I moved into Bolton from another area last July and although I admit I originally requested places at a more local school for my sons aged 12 and 14, I was offered places at Hayward. My 12-year-old also has a statement of special needs and has had nothing but help and encouragement from Mr Heaton and all his staff.

Uniform standards are very high at Hayward, but this is something that I welcome having seen the way some children at other schools in the area dress for school.

I have every sympathy for the mother and her son but I felt I had to write in defence of Mr Heaton and all his staff who have helped my son during his first year there and I have nothing but praise for the way they have helped both myself and my son.

Mrs J Harper

Avondale Road, Farnworth

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