Getting pupils dressed for success

21 Mar '07

3 min read

Schools have been told to limit the cost of uniforms as part of new guidelines issued by the Department for Education and Skills (DFES). The guidelines, which have been published for consultation, strongly encourage schools to have uniforms, as a way of instilling discipline and pride, protecting pupils and supporting effective teaching and learning.

However, the guidance is clear that schools need to take steps to ensure uniforms are affordable, easily available and are not a barrier for poorer families. Jim Knight, Minister for Schools, said:

Uniforms can help to develop the right mindset among pupils, instilling pride and supporting positive behaviour and discipline. But wealth should never be a deterrent to opportunity. I want every child to be able to go to the school of their choice, so it is important that the cost of uniforms does not exclude or deter families from poorer backgrounds.

Schools should consult parents and the wider community when setting uniform policy. And while they should make every effort to accommodate social, religious or medical requirements of individual pupils, the needs of safety, security and effective learning in the school must always take precedence.¡¨

Key recommendations in the guidelines include:

X Uniforms must be affordable for all:

- Schools should be sensitive to the cost implications of their choice of uniform. The chosen uniform should be available at high street shops and other retail outlets, rather than solely from an expensive sole supplier.

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