A school has apologised after a behaviour contract sent out to pupils asked them to sign a piece of paper stating they would "do whatever it takes to gain a place at university."

Budmouth College sent out 'commitment letters' detailing a new list of expectations from parents, carers and students for the next academic year.

Parents raised concern after students were asked to sign up for compulsory detention if homework was not complete, not up to the 'required standard', or handed in late.

There was also outrage over a part of the student contract that said: "I am ready to do whatever it takes to gain a place at university."

Parents were asked to sign a commitment contract which included a clause that they 'will not give their child unhealthy food or drinks to take to school' and will 'ensure their child has a healthy breakfast every morning.'

However David Herbert, the academy's principal, said these were unamended versions of the contracts that were mistakenly sent out, and have now been replaced.

Mr Herbert said: "As part of moving forward with new systems and structures we have shared a new contract of expectations from school, parents and students.

"Unfortunately, the one that was sent to parents prior to the parent's induction evening was a version that had not been amended by our staff.

"We enjoyed a brilliant attendance at our new parent’s induction evening last night. Being oversubscribed once again means that we have filled all 260 places and there is still a waiting list in operation for year 7.

"On the evening we were able to immediately replace this [letter] with the amended copy and address any concerns.

"We do not expect all of our students to go to university and we have removed this. We do however, wish them all to aim high and be the best they can be with whatever they choose to do.

"We do not expect students to attend compulsory weekend and holiday support sessions, however we will be offering ‘catch up’ opportunities where they are needed."

One anonymous parent said they felt 'shock and horror' when they read they read the original letter and refused to sign it because "the emphasis was on control."

"It presented a punitive regime...rather than a place of nurture and education aimed at building confident and independent thinkers," they said.

They admitted their fears weren't alleviated by the amendments made to the contracts, saying they are still uncomfortable with it "regardless of wording."