New ‘fair and inclusive’ uniform guidance developed by East Lothian pupils is to be rolled out across all county schools.
It makes entire sense that the people wearing the uniform are the people who help to develop the guidance.
While there is no legal requirement for uniform to be worn in Scottish schools, Scottish Government guidance states that schools should take a sensitive, pragmatic and inclusive approach that takes into account individual children’s needs.
Widespread consultation
Adopting a children’s rights approach, the council’s education team supported a consultation group of S2 and S3 pupils from every East Lothian secondary school to lead a discussion around uniform and how guidance could be implemented. The group also consulted with groups of children from every county primary school.
Through the consultation process, pupils agreed six principles for school uniform: affordable, comfortable, inclusive, equitable, practical and sustainable. The principles have been embedded in guidance to offer all schools a framework against which they can consider any changes to their uniform policy.
Pupils' presentation to committee
Four young people from Dunbar Grammar and Preston Lodge secondary schools presented the guidance to a meeting of the East Lothian Council Education and Children’s Services Committee and confidently answered elected members’ questions. Lynette, Finlay, Amy and Delta were praised by Councillors for their thorough grasp of the issues, insightful responses and commitment to improvements.
Members heard that uniform promotes a sense of belonging and an inclusive approach that allowed adaptations for people with physical or sensory needs is important. The young people also highlighted the importance of pre-loved uniform as an affordable and sustainable option.
The new framework will be implemented by schools when their own uniform guidance is next under review therefore avoiding additional costs for families.
Affordability and comfort
Cabinet member for Education and Children’s and Family Services Councillor Fiona Dugdale said: “On behalf of the committee, I want to congratulate everyone involved in developing this guidance. There has been a huge amount of work and consultation led by pupils and carried out across all the primary schools. It’s really important that the voices of our children and young people are heard and I’m delighted that Lynette, Finlay, Amy and Delta were able to come along and share this with us.
“It makes entire sense that the people wearing the uniform are the people who help to develop the guidance. I was really impressed by the depth of consideration that was given to all aspects of uniform and clothing at school. The principles that the young people have put forward are important with affordability and comfort given the highest priority.
“I hope we can have further opportunities for the views and voices of young people to be involved in future committee meetings.”