Uniform survey sparks debate
The idea of Kerikeri Primary School students wearing compulsory school uniforms has sparked debate among parents.
Mums and dads filled out a survey which asked for thoughts about a possible introduction of a uniform for their kids.
Students Devon, Mackenzie and Stella Crawford all want to remain in mufti clothes.
‘‘I like my normal clothes, I’m more comfortable in mufti,’’ Stella says.
Their mother Eileen Andrews doesn’t see the need to introduce a uniform.
She says the survey asked parents for their thoughts on a uniform and if one was to be introduced, how they would like it implemented.
‘‘I have one of those boys who always comes home dirty, so I would need a number of sets of uniforms.
‘‘It was suggested that a polo would be around $35 each so that would add up.’’
She says she hand makes some of her children’s clothes as well as sourcing their outfits from op shops, local stalls and hand-medowns.
Although they get new clothes as well, she says purchasing several sets of uniform to have a spare and to accommodate grow- ing children, would be expensive.
Parent Kendra Brownlee says her daughter loves the school but would be unhappy in a uniform.
‘‘We should let them express themselves and be individuals. ‘‘We should let kids be kids.’’ Brownlee says she would accept a uniform if it was made compulsory but says she can clothe her daughter for a lower cost with mufti clothing.
‘‘I can’t afford it, it would be at least $100 as you would also need spares as well.
‘‘In my opinion people who want it can afford it, there’s a majority who can’t.’’
A Facebook post also showed a number of people supported the idea of a uniform.
One Facebook user says it would save the pressure of kids trying to fit in and also reduce the amount of washing.
Another commented saying they believe it works out cheaper to wear a uniform eventually, as you can buy a bigger size for the child to grow into.
Kerikeri Primary School didn’t wish to comment further.
‘‘The uniform survey is still in progress and under consultation so there is nothing to report at this stage,’’ a spokesperson says.