An open letter from the SA addressing the current threats to the market.

 

The schoolwear industry and those employed in it work tirelessly to deliver products that we believe are vital to millions of school children every single year. However, there are currently political challenges on the horizon set to increase pressure on us all. Now is the time for everyone to come together and really promote the benefits of school-specific uniform – for schools, pupils and parents – and to be proud of what we achieve as an industry.

You will likely have recently seen an announcement regarding changes to the statutory guidance for school uniform in Wales. As the executive of The Schoolwear Association (SA) we are determined our voice is heard and that this clear and present threat is alleviated not just in Wales, but across all of the UK.

Not only are we continuing to work closely to educate political parties and pressure groups. A full programme of activity to speak directly to decision-makers in schools is also currently underway. We will directly contact headteachers and governors across the UK through multiple channels to reinforce the importance of school-specific uniform; not just to their schools, but also to the pupils that attend and parents that purchase the uniform.

We exist as an association to not only support our members and the best interests of the industry, but to assist decision-makers in schools in making the best choices with regards to their uniform policies.

The SA has now set up a ‘Clear and Present Danger Fund’. It will help fight the ongoing and upcoming battle the industry faces. This starts with legal advice that we will be sharing with members and schools on how changes to statutory guidance will impact them in the immediate future.

We want to work closely with schools and are confident most know the benefits that a consistent uniform delivers. However, this message needs expanding and reinforcing. We need to ensure they are in our corner if pressure builds further from decision-makers of the industry.

Changes and influence on the industry are not just about cost and value for money. There are some changes that The Schoolwear Association welcomes. The new guidance in Wales means schools will also be expected to deliver a uniform policy that is gender-neutral; this is something that we fully support and we are proud to say has already been adopted by many members.

A good quality, smart and consistent uniform fosters a feeling of pride and belonging among pupils.

It presents a school’s brand and image to the wider community, upholding its reputation as a respectable and effective institution. It also promotes safety on school trips or when children are out in the community since teachers can quickly see if anyone is missing.

School uniform can also have a significant impact on pupils’ concentration levels; helping to avoid distractions and even reduce levels of bullying. A consistent uniform acts as a social leveller within schools. All children wear exactly the same clothes, which prevents a focus on the socio-economic background of pupils; also helping to combat bullying.

In our experience, many parents prefer school-specific uniforms rather than cheaper versions from supermarkets or high street chains because they last longer and can be handed down to siblings. They can prove to be a more environmentally sustainable alternative to the now-ubiquitous fast-fashion culture. A quality uniform can go to swap shops and uniform banks. There is also the option to pass it on to siblings or a friend’s child. The cost savings make its value better than ever.

We understand the struggle some families face with the costs of uniform, which is why we have our Every Child is Worth It campaign.

We’re proud to serve families in their communities by providing high-quality clothing that can withstand the daily activities of school life. Those families that might struggle to purchase school uniform can seek help in budgeting for the expense that is offered by many of our retailers.

It’s likely you will be reading this letter before or at the annual Schoolwear Show in Solihull. We urge everyone to try and attend The Schoolwear Association Retailer Panel Discussions if you’re at the show. They will be tackling many of the challenges the industry is facing. They will also allow a number of different voices and opinions.

You don’t have to be a Schoolwear Association member to attend all the seminars and retailer discussions. However, having seen the benefits to your business of joining the SA, you’ll have an opportunity to do so at the SA stand next to the seminar area. If you’re serious about your business, then joining your trade association will give you lots of advice. Including how to improve your ability to retain and win business in the future.

If you have any questions about how the change in guidance will impact on your business, please get in touch.

Yours sincerely, Executive of The Schoolwear Association

Click here for further information on The Schoolwear Association or contact info@schoolwearassociation.co.uk.