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Dear Parent/Carer
Recently Mackie Academy conducted a survey on school uniform with pupils, parents and staff. The purpose of the survey was to consult on views and opinions regarding school uniform and to review our current dress code. A School Uniform Review Group, comprising of pupils, parents and staff, also was formed to provide advice and consult on the review. There were 391 responses to the survey: 262 pupils; 91 parents; and 37 members of teaching and support staff.
As a result of the survey, it has been decided that our school uniform will largely remain the same with some minor changes.
The uniform is:
- Plain white school shirt and Mackie Academy tie
- Plain black jumper or cardigan or jumper with school badge
- Plain black school trousers or school skirt
- Plain black shoes or plain black trainer-style footwear or plain black winter boots
The following items would not be considered to be appropriate:
- Jeans/denim;
- Lycra;
- Leather;
- Fashion belts;
- Inappropriate or offensive logos;
- Football colours
It is stressed that school uniform should be appropriate for wearing in school and not likely to cause discomfort, embarrassment, offence or difficulty for other pupils or for members of staff.
Clearly, there is a variety of views and opinions about uniform which is unsurprising. However, the survey has provided an opportunity to provide views and opinions and I am grateful to those who responded. It now means the standard is clear and straight forward. We would expect that all young people attend Mackie Academy in appropriate school uniform and that our dress code does not become an issue or a distraction from the learning and teaching in school. It is important for pupils to take a pride in themselves and their school.
All S1 to S3 pupils have been briefed by me about this at assembly and S4 to S6 pupils will be briefed once the Prelim exams finish. I am also briefing staff and rely very much on their supportive reinforcement of the school’s dress code. Similarly, I will discuss this with the Parent Council at a forthcoming meeting. I would like to stress the significant importance of parental support and reinforcement from home which is imperative. Should there be any issues with individual pupils, we would expect that our contact with parents will help to address such situations.
Although there is minimal change, the opportunity to express views and consult is always extremely important. I will be arranging for some further information on the survey to be posted on our website www.mackieacademy.co.uk.
There are many reasons for having a school uniform including pupil safety, helping to set standards and expectations and being prepared for school and work. We will always be prepared to consider any realistic and constructive ideas to support the dress code and will continue to work positively with young people and parents.
Yours faithfully
Andrew Griffiths
Rector |