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It continues: “It is acceptable practice to give the first name of a pupil and their school name.” Who says this is acceptable?

It suggests that sometimes pupils may want to be associated with their photo if the story reflects well on them. The author says: “In such cases it may be harder only to include a first name. There may be some circumstances in which the use of false names is justified”.

Yes, you really did just read what you thought you read.

And there’s more.

“Only use images of pupils in suitable dress, eg school uniform. But remember that children can be identified through logos or emblems on sweatshirts. Sometimes it may be necessary to airbrush or ‘fuzz’ out the relevant part of the image.

“If still undecided, a broad rule of thumb to remember is:

“If the pupil is named, avoid using their photograph.

“If the photograph is used, avoid naming the pupil.”

We are now in the middle of the Nativity season. Thousands of our readers are expecting to see pictures of their offspring pretending to be cattle, shepherds, angels or Wise Men beaming out from their local paper.

Do I ban the pictures out of spite? Do I roll over and capitulate?

Do I invite all the head teachers in for a glass of sherry and a mince pie and then give them a good telling off?

Or do I begin a one-man campaign against the faceless bureaucrats who are robbing our children of the chance to experience the thrill of seeing their name in print?

Turn your examination papers over now. You have 30 minutes to write out 1,000 times: “I must not name names…”