High Court Rules In Favour Of Student Over Hair

Saint John's College is disappointed with a High Court decision that forces them to allow a student to return to school with long hair.

Lucan Battison's parents sought a judicial review after he was stood down for refusing to cut his shoulder length hair.

Justice Collins says the school's rule on hair length is vague and uncertain so breaches common law requirements.

The Hastings school's Board of Trustees says they're taking time to consider the judgment in terms of its impact - on their school and other schools.

It says it's not about the individual student, but being able to manage the school in a positive environment, which includes compliance with the rules.

The High Court at Wellington has ruled in his favour in Battison's battle with St John's College in Hastings.

Justice Collins says the school's rule over hair length is vague and uncertain, compared with other uniform rules that are commonly prescribed, and as such breaches common law requirements.

He says there's considerable uncertainty as to whether or not Lucan's hair is actually short the way it is.

He's also ruled the Battison family is entitled to costs.

Justice Collins also used the Catholic school's charter to point out that it includes the statement, "every student is unique... made in the image of God and is treated with reverence".

That, he says, is inconsistent with its hair rule.

Source: Newstalk ZB