I don't know what they were marching about?

I do not have any children going to school, or at all. But I could see my vehemence going off the 'Angry Scale' (richter scale) if this issue, was an'issue'.But I would try to resolve it.

Surely the parent's request is a matter for the education department and committee of the local council,and not the school, if the school is state registered?.

This is only as difficult as the teaching staff choose to make it. The parents of the child in question should be told in no uncertain terms that they are now living in the UK. In this country we do not segregate pupils according to gender race or religion.

They should be advised that if they are unable to follow the customs which apply to life in this country they should remove their child from the school and themselves from the country!

" In fact, its a matter for the head teacher in the first instance"

That it may well be, but what happens after that. The head teacher and no doubt the board of governors would be involved, also the local education department or committee would be overseeing the events on any decision making?.

In my area, the local city and county councils are well able to deal with situations like this, especially when it comes to allocating spaces in schools for special needs or requirements.