Thousands of Australian high school and university students have walked out of classes in nationwide protests against Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party.

The “Students Say No to Hanson” protests were organised by the National Union of Students across major cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth.

Protest organisers say they are standing against what they describe as racism, sexism and far-right politics.

Pauline Hanson has criticised the protests, saying students should focus on issues such as the rising cost of living instead.

Hanson also accused schools of influencing young people politically and said students should be taught how to think, rather than what to think.

The protests come as One Nation’s support continues to rise, adding further tension to Australia’s political debate.