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Original poster

Is my child’s school allowed to still have multiple branded uniform items

37 replies

Anothernamechange3 · 17/07/2023 15:47

Hi,

my child’s secondary school (part of a multi academy trust) is still insisting on branded trousers and skirts from a single supplier in addition to the branded blazer. As far as I am aware this is against statutory guidance. Apparently their take is that they are allowed to do this because they offer a scheme where you can buy second hand from the school items that have been donated.

Everything I have read seems to say they should be removing unnecessary branded items AND giving second hand options: it’s not either/or. Am I right? Are they still legally allowed to do this? The gov.uk site I have looked at recommends going through the school’s official complaints procedure. Before I do this, I’m asking advice here as to whether they’ve got round it with some convenient loophole, or if they do indeed need to allow non branded skirts/trousers from other shops.

Thank you.

OP posts:
AnonAnom940 · 17/07/2023 20:27

I think they should make it so it's just one logo item and then the rest bought from high street.

My daughter's primary school has royal blue skirts and they are only available at one uniform shop. No high street options. Could get a different style from random places online. But still, grey like the boys trousers would be better!

bunnypenny · 17/07/2023 20:23

Statutory guidance is just that, guidance. It’s recommended but not legally binding and the school must have regard to it when considering their policies.

Original poster
Anothernamechange3 · 17/07/2023 20:17

This is called ‘statutory guidance’ and I don’t really understand if it means schools have to do it or not

Is my child’s school allowed to still have multiple branded uniform items
Is my child’s school allowed to still have multiple branded uniform items
OP posts:
Original poster
Anothernamechange3 · 17/07/2023 20:15

I think the idea is that you reduce the logo stuff to ie one blazer (from a single supplier) but make the trousers and skirts a colour/style rule but no logo so they can be bought from high street shops/supermarkets

OP posts:
Foxesandsquirrels · 17/07/2023 20:01

I think multiple suppliers is also impractical for a lot of schools, not just academies. It ends up costing the same with each supplier if the item is logo'd..

Original poster
Anothernamechange3 · 17/07/2023 19:39

Oh I’m definitely prepared to but second hand, and do so frequently. I don’t think that should be some people’s only option though. I’m disappointed that the academy is ignoring the recommendations but not surprised if I’m honest.

OP posts:
Bluevelvetsofa · 17/07/2023 17:15

Guidance isn’t law, but it is recommended that more than one supplier is available for parents to buy from. The trouble is, that academies are such a law unto themselves.

Are there options for non branded clothes? Would you be prepared to buy second hand if necessary?

Original poster
Anothernamechange3 · 17/07/2023 16:45

That makes sense, thank you

OP posts:
Foxesandsquirrels · 17/07/2023 16:41

I don't think guidance is law, no. But you can certainly quote it. The guidance isn't particularly detailed though so it's probably best you don't frame your argument around solely the guidance.

Original poster
Anothernamechange3 · 17/07/2023 16:31

I definitely will express my disappointment. I’d just like to know if what they are doing is breaking the law or just not recommended as that will determine how far I push it.

OP posts:
Foxesandsquirrels · 17/07/2023 16:26

Does it matter if it's allowed or not? I think you can write your complaint and express your disappointment.