SCHOOL governors are standing by a head teacher’s decision to stop a student wearing a crucifix on a chain around her neck.

Governors at Robert Napier School at Gillingham discussed Samantha Devine’s fight to wear the silver chain at their latest meeting but decided to uphold the policy.

The 13-year-old, from Canterbury Street, Gillingham, had been asked to remove the cross and chain by staff at the school because it breached health and safety concerns.

Her father, Danny Devine, believes she is being singled out because of her beliefs, but head teacher Fiona Miller said the issue was one of student safety, not religion.

Ms Miller refused to budge on the rule but has given Samantha permission to wear a lapel badge to demonstrate her commitment to the Catholic faith.

Bob Balneaves, chairman of governors, led the meeting. He said: “The governors carefully considered the points raised by Mr Devine but have decided to uphold the school’s jewellery policy at this time.

“The governors noted that many other schools across the country, as well as locally, operate a similar no jewellery policy. Samantha is free to wear a crucifix as a symbol of her religious beliefs, but as a small lapel badge not on a necklace.

“Samantha’s parents were aware of the policy when she joined the school, signing up to support the uniform and dress code.

“We sincerely hope that Samantha will continue to respect the school’s rules and the governors’ decision.”

The school dress code will be reviewed again in the Spring.

Mr Balneaves added: “We always take account of views from all sections of our school community through our school conference when creating and reviewing our policies.

“This is the opportunity the school community has to reconsider our school dress code as part of our whole school review

“Any amendments to our policies are checked to ensure they do not disadvantage any student based on their race or religion.”

Samantha’s family were not available for comment.