SCHOOL UNIFORM SEXISM ROW
AHIGH school in Wales has been accused of sexism after announcing plans to ban girls from wearing trousers.
Parents at Connah’s Quay High School in Flintshire have this week received letters proposing uniform changes which would force female pupils to wear skirts.
The letter sent by head teacher Ann Peers claims that there have been problems with schoolgirls wearing “skintight” trousers, leggings and jeans.
As a result a “school uniform consultation” has been launched, with parents asked to provide their views on the matter, the Daily Post reported.
Angry parents of children at the school have now set up a campaign group called Support Our Child’s Choices SOCCs with pages on Facebook and Twitter.
Community leaders have also labelled the letter as “ridiculous” with concerns raised that it promotes gender inequality.
The letter reads: “At Connah’s Quay High School we believe our uniform should instill [sic] a sense of identity, pride and belonging. We want our learners to be comfortable in school as well as ensuring high standards and consistency.
“School uniform supports effective teaching and learning and engenders a positive, calm and respectful teaching and learning environment.
“The school offers a significant number of visits, trips, concerts and occasions during a year where learners are acting as ambassadors for its good name and reputation. It is very important therefore that learners feel part of that school community and have that identity.
“We have consulted with our school council, the girls in the school and our governors. At present girls are permitted to wear trousers, this has been an ongoing issue in regard to denims being worn, leggings and skin-tight trousers.
“The boys are expected to wear tailored trousers and look extremely smart.
“To bring the same level of consistency to the uniform for girls I would like to make the change to skirts.”
The letter adds that the skirts will be available to purchase from Queensferry Sports at a cost of £10.
Parents are asked to respond to the letter with their views by Monday, February 27, and the letter adds: “It is important for us to gather an accurate picture of parental views.”
Politicians have taken to Twitter to raise their concerns over the uniform shake-up.
Alyn and Deeside AM Carl Sargeant tweeted: “gender assigned clothing is ridiculous! Uniform is fine but it should not be based on gender!”
Leader of Flintshire County Council Aaron Shotton posted: “Writing to Head asking her not to implement. Policy of tailored trousers for boys should equally apply to girls.”