Have your say on school uniform

Local Assembly Member, Lesley Griffiths is encouraging residents in Wrexham to have their say on how school uniforms can be more affordable and inclusive.

The Welsh Government is consulting on new guidance for schools and making uniforms more affordable, available, gender-neutral and, in extreme weather conditions, flexible are the four key aims of the consultation launched last week.

Under the new regulation, governing bodies would be expected to consider ways of keeping down the costs of school uniform. These could include stipulating basic items and colours but not styles; this would mean that items could be bought from multiple retail chains at reasonable prices and not just from one supplier.

Schools would also be encouraged to consider whether school logos are strictly necessary and, if so, whether they should be restricted to just one item of uniform or provided free of charge and sewed, ironed or stuck onto items of clothing.

Lesley Griffiths AM said “School uniforms can be a financial burden for families and I certainly believe more can be done to ensure they are more affordable.”

“By introducing this legal guidance, the Welsh Government is addressing the issues and adopting a sensible approach, which also promotes equality and focuses on students’ wellbeing.”

“A 12-week consultation has now started and I would encourage local parents, pupils and schools to have their say on the matter.”

The consultation can be found here