Children at a Catholic primary school in Keighley are being forced to repeat a year of their education because the governing body wants to reduce the size of classes.

Mum Kelly Wilson is furious after her five-year-old daughter Jennifer was among 10 pupils who were told they were being held back at St Anne’s Catholic Primary School, in North Street.

A spokesman for the Diocese of Leeds, which sets policy at the school, confirmed the move saying it would help reduce class sizes.

He said it was “unfortunate” some parents were concerned. Mum-of-six Kelly said the move had resulting in her daughter being teased by other children.

She said: “Jennifer is normally a happy, bubbly person but she is really upset about going to school now.

“She keeps asking me when she is moving up to year one with her friends.

“Teachers talk to her like she is a nursery child and she is bringing home identical work and reading books she has already completed. I have spoken with the teachers and they say she is above average and hasn’t been held back because of her ability.

“This shouldn’t be happening. My daughter is willing, bright and well behaved.”