CHILDREN were met by a protest against Covid vaccinations as they left school at the end of the day.

Headteacher Jy Taylor contacted parents shortly after the situation developed outside Twynham School in Sopers Lane, Christchurch.

He described the protest behaviour and abuse of his staff as "completely unacceptable".

Dorset Police officers were called to the scene and remained in the area to ensure there was no breach of the peace.

In his correspondence to parents, Mr Taylor said: "I am writing to make you aware of an incident that took place outside of our gates at the end of school today (Monday). A campaign group against the Covid-19 vaccinations chose to protest, quite loudly, as students were leaving for the end of the day."

Mr Taylor said staff attempted to divert students out of the back gates but some children were caught in the protest.

He said members of staff were in attendance at all times and were met by criticism from protestors.

"We are sorry that your children may have witnessed this behaviour and wanted you to know that the police were informed immediately," said Mr Taylor.

"Some students may have chosen to record the incident on their phones and we would encourage you to ask them delete the footage rather than share this more widely. Similarly some of our students may have been given literature by the campaigners and we would want to assure you that this has not been distributed by the school."

A Dorset Police spokesman said: "Dorset Police received a report at 3.19pm of a protest taking place outside Twynham School in Christchurch.

"Officers attended and engaged with the protestors and liaised with the school. It was reported that the protest was peaceful.

"Officers remained in the area to ensure there was no breach of the peace.

"It was reported at around 4.10pm that the protestors had moved away from the school."