DRESS UP FRIDAY!
New trend inspired by boy who wears school uniform at home
‘Trying to spread a bit of positivity’
MOST school children can’t wait to get home and change out of their uniform.
But young Daniel Park is having none of that – he is so enthusiastic about learning that he asked his mother to let him ‘dress up’ properly while she home schools him during lockdown.
The six-year-old, from Edinburgh, has been studying in the family living room since schools closed. His parents, Wendy and Steven, said they were surprised at their son’s request, but have let him wear his school jumper, polo shirt and trousers during home lessons.
Now Daniel’s love for his school uniform has sparked a nationwide trend.
More than 50 primary schools in Edinburgh have asked pupils to ‘dress up’ today, with other primary schools in Glasgow and Aberdeen taking part.
The idea – ‘Dress Up Fridays’ – is designed to keep children in a routine while schools remain closed.
Mrs Park said: ‘We are really surprised by the responses to Daniel dressing in his uniform.
‘At first we were oblivious to it all until a teacher told us that Daniel’s idea was going to become a city-wide activity.’
She added: ‘It’s nice that everyone is in the same position, wanting to feel more connected to their school. We’re not sure he’s aware just how big his idea has become but he’s certainly excited by it.’
Daniel is a pupil at Wardie Primary School in the capital.
The school’s acting principal, Maria Conway, said: ‘Everyone seems really excited about the day. Students have been creating posters in anticipation and writing about what their school uniform means to them.
‘I think it really gives them a feel of normality.
‘It’s just trying to do something different to spread a bit of positivity and make them smile.’