A YOUNGSTER who risked losing his school place unless he cut his hair short has been allowed to keep it... in a ‘man bun’.

Alfie Howard-Hughes, 11, was accepted into Colchester Royal Grammar School after passing his 11+ exams.

But Alfie, whose hair is 27 inches long, was told it did not meet the school’s code of conduct.

The policy says boys’ hair must be no longer than collar length in order to look smart.

His parents, Gary Howard and Katy Cox, considered legal action having tried to talk the school around.

Alfie even wrote a letter to the grammar school’s headteacher John Russell to challenge the policy.

Thankfully Alfie was able to start school yesterday, having come to an agreement over his hair.

He posed for a picture looking smart in his blazer and tie, and was very excited to be starting secondary school.

Mum Katy said: “Alfie has kept his hair.

“After putting in a formal complaint we met with the school governors and the head.

“Although they didn’t want to change their policy they did agree to make an exception for Alfie and would interpret their policy differently.”

As long as Alfie’s hair is kept off his collar, he will be able to keep it long.

Katy added: “The wording on the policy states hair must be worn above the collar so he has to wear it in a bun so it is neat and above his collar.

“He’s been practising and it is getting neater every time.

“Hopefully that’s the end of it unless they do decide to update their policy so it would include any student, but we got the result we wanted for Alfie so we’re happy for him.”

Alfie’s dad also went to Colchester Royal Grammar School as a pupil. He was aware of the rule but thought it might have changed over the passage of time.

They had contacted the Child Law Advice Service as a last resort.

A previous letter from Mr Russell said he appreciated Alfie’s passion but stood by the policy.

It said: “The fundamental reason for the school having specific standards on dress and personal appearance is to prepare students for a successful educational and personal career.

“My senior leadership team and I regularly review the code of conduct in light of any representations from students.”