Saron with her mother Hana Yimer at their Arsenal home

AN 11-year-old girl has left her secondary school after she was repeatedly threatened with detention if she did not remove her cross worn around her neck.

Saron Tewodrose, an Orthodox Christian, was withdrawn from Highbury Fields School by her parents on Wednesday.

The school told the family that Saron was required to remove her crucifix because it was regarded as jewellery under its uniform policy – even though the schoolgirl usually kept it tucked into her shirt.

Her parents, who are from Ethiopia, argued it was a key symbol of their religion and, until last week, Saron had never taken off the wooden cross.

She was given it at her holy communion when she was just two months old. “I believe that people should be treated equally. I don’t want anybody to be singled out because of their religion,” Saron said.

“I am really disappointed. It’s also a bit embarrassing as well – for me and for them. Because, you know, I’ve been humiliated in front of hundreds of people.

“And for them, why would they do this? What was the problem?”

The cross is considered so significant to practising members of the religion that even when the string that holds it is old, they hold the cross to their chest as the string is replaced. It is then blessed by a priest.

Saron’s mother, Hana Yimer, has now lodged a complaint with the Department for Education and said she has contacted Ofsted and Islington Council.

Under article 9 of the Human Rights Act, everyone has the right to “freedom of thought, conscience and religion” as well as the right to “manifest your beliefs” which can include clothing and a cross, provided it does not impact on another’s rights.

When Saron’s mother was called by the deputy head last week, she said she was advised it was a “simple” problem to fix. Ms Yimer said she had made a comparison to the school’s Muslim students being allowed to wear a hijab and said the approach towards a crucifix was “anti-Christian” and “disrespectful”.

The school was rated “outstanding” by Ofsted in 2016, and was praised for its inclusivity. The report stated: “Leaders’ unwavering focus upon inclusion means that the school community is fully committed to meeting its equalities duties. “Everyone is welcomed and can be successful at this school.”

A spokesperson for the school said: “At Highbury Fields School, we’re proud of our culturally rich community and are committed to ensuring that all pupils are treated fairly and respectfully.

“The school’s uniform policy makes clear that jewellery is not permitted, with the exception of a single pair of stud earrings. The policy, which is in place for health and safety reasons, is explained clearly to parents and guardians on admission.

“While the school is not able to comment on individual cases, any complaints from parents or guardians are treated seriously and dealt with appropriately.”

With the wooden cross she was asked to remove