Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.
Alvaston Moor Academy, a secondary school located in Derby, has announced a significant update to its school uniform policy. Starting this September, incoming Year 7 students will no longer be required to wear the traditional combination of a shirt, blazer, and tie. Instead, they will adopt a new uniform consisting of a black all-weather jacket and a polo shirt emblazoned with the school crest. This change follows extensive consultation with pupils, staff, and parents, and aims to create a more practical and inclusive uniform option.
The school explains that the updated uniform design is intended to better accommodate the needs of all students, including those with sensory sensitivities who find the conventional attire restrictive and uncomfortable. Gemma Tyers, the school principal, expressed optimism about the benefits, stating that the uniform change “will boost attendance, engagement and achievement for students across the board.” She emphasized that the school’s decision was guided by the community’s feedback during a “Big Student Ask” initiative, reflecting a strong desire for a more affordable, practical, and inclusive uniform.
While the new uniform will be mandatory for new Year 7 students, pupils in higher year groups will have the option to switch, though it will not be compulsory for them to purchase the updated clothing. Tyers highlighted that despite the changes, the school uniform remains a symbol of identity and community spirit. “It’s still branded, it’s still a really clear sense of community and it maintains our school identity,” she said, reinforcing the school’s commitment to upholding high standards while evolving with contemporary needs.
The debate over school uniforms, including their cost and practicality, has attracted national attention. According to recent Department for Education data, the average price for a full secondary school uniform, including PE kit, is £442, with nearly 40% of parents reporting difficulty covering these expenses. Legislation currently progressing through Parliament aims to reduce the number of compulsory branded items, although it does not cap overall costs. Supporting the move toward more practical uniforms, organizations such as the Youth Sport Trust applaud changes that encourage physical activity by reducing barriers imposed by traditional uniforms. Ali Oliver, CEO of the Youth Sport Trust, praised Alvaston Moor Academy’s approach, noting that it “proves high standards and modern, inclusive designs can go hand in hand,” while also helping students become more active during the school day
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.