The Schoolwear Association has issued a response following the passing of the Education (Guidance about Costs of School Uniform) Bill through the House of Commons on Friday 12 March.

Prior to Friday, the Association has stated its position regarding the Bill; welcoming it in principle and supporting the proposal to place school uniform guidance on a statutory footing.

However, it also highlighted the importance of the Bill being implemented appropriately and that sufficient time is given to schools and families to introduce the guidance to avoid any unintended consequences.

Commenting is Matthew Easter, co-chair of The Schoolwear Association.

“The Schoolwear Association welcomes the news that the Education (Guidance about Costs of School Uniforms) Bill has passed through the House of Commons. As an organisation, we continue to support efforts at a national level that work towards ensuring all schools have an appropriate uniform policy in place.

“We will continue to work closely with the Department for Education to share our experience and expertise to help develop the guidance; it’s of the utmost importance that with its implementation, we do not lose the many benefits that school uniform has in our schools.

“A sensible school uniform plays a key role in creating a strong school identity and ethos for learning. It also encourages higher educational standards and reduces bullying, not to mention the hugely positive impact on social cohesiveness in our schools.

“It’s equally critical that policymakers introduce the guidance in a gradual and phased way to give schools, families and retailers sufficient time to implement the new measures. We don’t want to see parents put in a position where they have to buy new uniform items before their children have grown out of their existing ones.”

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