Parents have pulled their children out of classes at a village primary school over a 'transgender day' planned for pupils as young as four.

Three families have revealed they will not allow their children to St Mary the Virgin Primary School in Hartfield, East Sussex, for the classes, which are meant to help the pupils 'explore' their sexuality.

Up to 10 others have also spoken out about their concerns about the plans, which were announced on Monday by headteacher Emma Maltby.

Parents have pulled their children out of classes at St Mary the Virgin Primary School in Hartfield, East Sussex over a 'transgender day' planned for pupils as young as four

One mother, who asked not to be named, said the children should be 'left alone'.

She said: 'I don't want my daughter being exposed to all this nonsense.

'Kids need to be left alone when it comes to things like this, they just want to run around the playground not be told they need to "think differently" about gender issues.

'The whole thing is ridiculous and I hope the head gets the message and scraps it.'

Another parent, who also wished to remain anonymous, said there was 'great unease' among parents.

She told the East Grinstead Courier: 'Some parents have announced their intention to keep their children from school on at least one day.

Three families have revealed they will not allow their children to classes with up to 10 others also speaking out about their concerns about the plans, which were announced on Monday by headteacher Emma Maltby (pictured)

'Parents have said that they feel the welfare of their children is under threat from the instructions given in this document.'

The classes, based on the Brighton-based Allsorts Youth Project, were proposed by the school in a bid to 'empower young people'.

The Allsorts website states that it creates a 'safe space for trans and gender questioning children', and allows kids to 'explore and be themselves'.

It also says the programme will give kids 'a chance to meet other trans/gender questioning children', as well as taking part in 'fun games'.

Ms Maltby defended her decision to hold the 'transgender day' before the Easter holidays, saying it was important to raise gender issues.

She said: 'As part of the national curriculum, we spend time talking to the children about British values of tolerance, respect and celebrating differences.

'One of the areas we will be discussing shortly is gender identity and we felt that it was important to involve parents in their child's learning by holding an information session.

'We have had a very positive response to the event and the opportunity to learn more about this relevant topic, although three families have chosen to withdraw their children from school.'