News / schools
Pupil power wins the day against ‘discriminatory’ new uniform rule
Hundreds of students took part in a protest inside their school to share their anger against a proposed new uniform policy that could see them forced to wear longer skirts.
Girls at Cotham School started a ‘free the knees’ campaign against the introduction of the new rule that has been called “shockingly sexist”, “regressive” and “discriminatory”, with lessons disrupted on Friday because of the protest.
The pupils’ campaign appears to have been successful, with Cotham headteacher Jo Butler writing to parents on Monday to say that she has “actively listened in particular to girls’ voices since the proposed change was announced” and will now keep the current rule for knee-length skirts for the next academic year; although it is due to be reviewed in term five.
is needed now More than ever
Butler said: “The proposed uniform change aimed to remove the consistent and persistent daily issues staff encounter when endeavouring to support implementation of the school uniform policy.
“As I am sure you will understand, if exceptions are made it becomes difficult to uphold the policy fairly for everyone potentially leading to more creative interpretations that further undermine uniform standards…
“It was proposed that our school uniform policy will be updated so that students could wear either a pair of trousers, shorts or a midi-length (calf length) or longer skirt to school.”
Butler added: “This policy update had absolutely nothing to do with restricting girls’ choices due to outdated attitudes or concerns about how girls and women should dress.
“Our female students are valued members of our school community (as are all our students whatever their gender) and we respect their right to comfortable, appropriate school clothing.
“We remain dedicated to treating all students with equal respect regardless of sex or gender.
“Our uniform change is gender-neutral and applies the same standards to everyone.
“It ensures all students can participate fully in school life while looking smart and feeling comfortable.”
Students said the proposed new rules would have been a “violation of women’s rights” – photo: Martin Booth
Butler held assemblies for all girls in Years 7 to 10 on Monday to tell them that she would be keeping the current rules but if she sees pupils wearing skirts too short she could introduce a no-skirts rule.
More than 100 people have so far signed a ‘free the knees’ petition started by a student against the proposed new uniform rules.
One signatory called the proposals “a regressive response to an issue”.
They said: “Boys needs to be educated about correct behaviour. The message this uniform change sends is dangerous: boys are not responsible for their behaviour; it’s the fault of the girls.”
One person said: “This is a shockingly sexist idea. When did it become acceptable to tell girls/women that they need to cover their entire bodies? Why are we holding girls responsible for male reactions? Why aren’t we educating our boys to do better?”
A signatory added: “This is an outrage and actually discriminatory – so much for the empowerment of girls! We must stand firm and take action.”
And another signatory said: “This rule change discriminates against women. Shame on Cotham for capitulating to Andrew Tate’s misogyny.”
Main photo: Martin Booth
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