A 15-year-old boy was removed from his class and taught in isolation for two days – because he had "fluff" growing on his chin and upper lip.
The incident happened after a new rule about facial hair was put into place at his school, Sacred Heart, in Crosby, Merseyside.
A teacher removed Sam Taubman, 15, from his English class and told him his facial hair was inappropriate. He was told he would not be taught with other pupils until he removed it.
Sam said: 'She said I had too much facial hair. I thought it wasn't fair. I had never had a warning about it.'
He said that other boys in the school had facial hair, but he was punished by spending two days in a separate classroom.
His mum, Jackie Kent, said she was shocked and angry when she heard what had happened.
However, Sam now regularly shaves his facial hair because he doesn't want to be punished again.
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, headteacher Ian Walker said: 'The college has high standards in all that it does, as can be seen from last year's Grade 1 Ofsted report.
'That report said that "the personal development and wellbeing of students is an outstanding feature of the school; it has a very caring and vibrant learning environment and standards are exceptionally high."
'Parents are keen for us to maintain these standards, and we therefore set great store by our policy on uniform and appearance.
'For a short time, Sam found himself at odds with that policy, but the matter was resolved. During that time, Sam continued to receive his full curriculum entitlement.
'I have invited Mrs Kent to come and speak with me about any related matters at a time convenient for her.'
What do you think?
Should schools have the right to criticise children's appearance?