School Uniform Expectations (Updated March 2026)

Rationale

A school uniform helps promote equality by ensuring that all pupils are dressed in the same way, regardless of their background or family income. It removes pressure to wear expensive brands or the latest fashion, meaning no child feels left out or judged for what they can or cannot afford. In this way, uniform helps create a fairer, more inclusive environment where pupils are valued for who they are, not what they wear.

By insisting on high standards of uniform, we are preparing children for the expectations they will encounter at upper schools and in the world of work, where presentation, professionalism, and attention to detail are important.

Our rationale underpinning these expectations is simple. When pupils deliberately set themselves apart from others through their appearance—unless for culturally or religiously significant reasons—they are more likely to be treated differently by their peers. Unfortunately, different does not always mean fair.

A consistent approach to uniform and appearance helps to promote equality, reduce social pressures, and create a strong sense of belonging within our school community.

We recognise that for some pupils with specific and complex learning needs, there may need to be flexibility for sensory or individual reasons. Any adjustments should be discussed with the Inclusion Lead or the Headteacher.

Uniform

All pupils are expected to wear either a Chickerell sweatshirt, V-neck jumper, or cardigan, or a plain maroon jumper. A school tie must be worn with a shirt.

Pupils may wear grey or black trousers or shorts, or a grey/black skirt or pinafore of an appropriate length. Skirts and pinafores should cover the majority of the upper legs. Summer dresses may be worn during warmer weather. Shorts are not considered appropriate for colder weather, even when worn with tights; however, if worn, they must be at least knee length.

Shoes must be safe, comfortable, and dark in colour. Boots are not permitted. Plain black trainers are acceptable. All footwear must have a normal-height heel and must not be platform style.

PE Kit

For PE, pupils should wear either a Chickerell logo PE T-shirt (maroon) or a plain navy or maroon T-shirt. This should be paired with maroon or dark-coloured shorts, or dark-coloured tracksuit bottoms or leggings. Pupils may also wear a Chickerell hoodie or a dark-coloured jumper/tracksuit top.

On PE days, pupils should come to school dressed in their PE kit.

Jewellery

Pupils may wear a watch, one pair of stud earrings, and a necklace of religious significance (such as a St Christopher). All items must be removed for PE, although earrings may be taped if necessary. Charity wristbands are permitted.

Hair and Appearance

Long hair must be tied back for practical activities. A small, plain headband may be worn.

We discourage excessive use of hair products and extreme hairstyles. This includes styles such as hair shaved very short for fashion purposes, shaved patterns, overly pointed styles, or similar. Hair colour should be natural or appear natural; colours that are clearly unnatural are not permitted.

Make-up is not allowed, including nail varnish and false nails.

Inclusion and Cultural Respect

Our school champions the right of staff and pupils to embrace all Afro-textured hairstyles. We recognise that Afro-textured hair is an important part of Black staff and pupils’ racial, ethnic, cultural, and religious identities, and may require specific styling for hair health and maintenance.

We welcome Afro-textured hair in all forms, including but not limited to afros, locs, twists, braids, cornrows, fades, heat- or chemically-straightened hair, weaves, wigs, headscarves, and wraps.

Should children deliberately and consistently choose to flout these expectations, and there has been no discussion with the Head or Inclusion lead as to why, then please understand that there will inevitably be a consequence for this.

All our  logoed uniform can be obtained from Dorset Embroidery and Printwear, on the Lynch Lane Industrial Estate, and Dorset Schoolwear, Caroline Place, in Weymouth. 

Every Monday, we put in the main school foyer all 'new to you ' donated uniform which you are very welcome to come and take should you wish .