A Sidcup secondary school say a group of boys who shaved their heads in solidarity with a friend enduring chemotherapy have not been excluded.

This is contrary to reports on social media but a Hurstmere School spokesperson has told News Shopper the boys remain in class.

The students were supporting a cancer-stricken friend and they were allegedly sent home on Monday (September 23) for breaking the rules after arriving on Hurst Road with short hair.

A school spokesperson refused to comment on whether the boys were punished or sent home.

A friend of one of the boys told News Shopper: "I think it is absolutely outrageous how the school punished them for something they should be awarded for.

"The school excluded them for a week due to their haircut, even after they explained why they shaved it - they still issued the punishment."

However, the school insist the boys have not been excluded but did say students needed to "go about things the right way".

A statement read: "Our thoughts go out to the young man who is currently undergoing chemotherapy and his family.

"We commend his friends who are so keen to support him during this difficult time. We have dedicated school staff available to support all our students.

"However, as a school community we would urge our students to go about things in the right way, taking into consideration the feelings and views of others and the school's expectations.

"We have explained our position to the parents of the students involved. They have not been excluded from school and are still attending lessons as usual."

The school said they would not be commenting further.