As Muslims celebrate the festival of Eid al-Fitr, henna tattoos can be seen in schools and colleges across the country.

But exam boards have issued clarification for students taking GCSEs and A levels, after centres have circulated conflicting advice on the issue.

This follows concerns that henna tattoos on students’ hands and arms could be used for concealing exam notes.

Luton Sixth Form College yesterday told its students that henna tattoos on their hands and arms were “against JCQ exam regulations so please DON’T get these done if you’ve still got exams in the next couple of weeks”.

Other students have taken to social media to complain about not being allowed to use henna.

No notes allowed

While official guidance for candidates does not explicitly address whether henna is allowed, a spokesman for the Joint Council for Qualifications, which represents the biggest exam boards, told Tes there was no outright ban on the temporary tattoos.

“Candidates are not allowed to take notes or any unauthorised material into the exam room,” the spokesman said.

“Provided a centre is content that a henna design does not contravene JCQ’s regulations, they can be worn into an examination. Centres are asked to ensure that their invigilators are aware of this requirement and are vigilant regarding the design of any henna tattoos.”