Uniform policy
School Councils have the right to set the school’s uniform policy and should be aware of their communities and should consult with students and parents on what is a practical and affordable uniform policy. Why should parents be asked to pay a high price for a polo shirt with the school’s logo on it when they can buy a plain polo from a retail store for a few dollars. Surely a better option would be to offer iron-on logos if the school insists on a logo at all. In particular, the requirement to purchase a specific type of pant, puts financial pressure on families. Why do pants need to have logos?
Affordable uniforms
Some public schools have moved away from the more ‘casual’ uniform of polo shirts to ‘business’ style shirts, often along with ties and/or blazers. Schools sometimes view this as their opportunity to appear like private schools. We don’t believe that is a relevant or necessarily even a good aspiration for students. Parents Victoria believes schools would be better served to retain an affordable uniform and spare parents this unnecessary expense, allowing parents to put the money towards other educational necessities, or even family necessities.
Enforcement
Having a strict uniform policy also requires strict enforcement. The time required to do this consistently and fairly is wasted and could be better used as teaching time. As per our policy below, we believe “No child should be barred from school activities, or punished, for being out of school uniform.”
Parents Victoria Policy
P.1 School Uniform
School Council has the right to decide, in conjunction with Parent Club and Student Representative Council, on the composition of a school uniform, and to encourage the wearing of it.
No child should be barred from school activities, or punished, for being out of school uniform.
