253 people have signed a Change.org petition to address the cost of South Nottinghamshire Academy’s compulsory uniform in September.
Parents in Radcliffe on Trent have criticised the decision the secondary school made to introduce more branded items to its school uniform starting next term.
The uniform will cost £209.80 for girls and £160 for boys, which includes logo-branded girls’ trousers (£21), logo-branded skirts (£27.95) and logo-branded boys’ trousers £19.50.
Local parents have identified that costs would be significantly lower if pupils were able to wear non-branded shirts, skirts, shorts and trousers.
The petition, started by Rob Kemp – a parent whose 11 year old starts at the school in September, states: “The Government and laws are clear about school uniform and excessive costs. However, some schools seem to be ignoring the legislation – and ignoring the wishes of parents / carers. At this time when everyone is impacted by rising costs and financial pressure, this school – South Nottinghamshire Academy, in Radcliffe on Trent – have decided that they want to force through uniform changes which will mean hundreds of pounds of outlay for parents.”
It continues: “Several surrounding schools have adapted their approach to uniform on parent / carer feedback – this school, however, seems to be resistant to any feedback, or any number of emails and complaints.”
The petition description also says: “South Nottinghamshire Academy need to reduce the use of branded items in their approved list, allow generic uniform with embroidered patches (as the legislation states), and assure gender equality in their choice of uniforms particularly with respect to pricing. In addition the needs of all pupils should be considered, including those with additional needs.”
Dan Philpotts, headteacher of South Nottinghamshire Academy, speaking to Nottingham Post said: “It is an exciting time for South Nottinghamshire Academy, with a new building under construction ready for use next year, a new house being introduced from September and a new school logo due to be launched.
“All of this, we hope, will build on the pride we know our students and their families have for their school. The school uniform at South Nottinghamshire Academy has remained unchanged for many years.
“School leaders and governors have fully considered the practical, financial, and logistical implications of rolling out a new uniform. While the change to uniform has been planned for some time, we do recognise the current squeeze on household budgets due to the cost-of-living crisis. For this reason, we have tried to mitigate the impact on families by purchasing a new uniform for every current student.
“We are also providing competitive prices on compulsory school uniform items, in comparison with other local schools; supporting families of new and current students in cases of financial hardship and operating a pre-loved – second hand uniform scheme from September 2022. We continue to receive feedback from parents / carers and will keep the new school uniform policy under review.”
Find the petition here.
