High school may reconsider its skirts-only girls’ uniform plan
Governors at a secondary school that provoked controversy with a “skirt-only” uniform policy proposal have indicated that the school may rethink its plan.
More than 200 people signed a petition calling for Connah’s Quay High School to change its mind after head teacher Ann Peers proposed the rule in a letter to parents.
Critics described the uniform policy as “sexist” and “outrageous”.
Alyn and Deeside Labour AM Carl Sargeant said the proposal “should be dropped” as female pupils “should have the right to choose whether to wear a skirt or trousers”.
Councillor Martin White, chairman of governors at the school, has now said no final decision had been made on the proposals.
He said: “Unfortunately, these things happen at half-term and it’s only a consultation.
“It’s not a done thing and has to come back to the governors so whatever is ratified will be ratified.”
The letter sent out by Mrs Peers last week said the proposed changes were needed due to problems with schoolgirls wearing “skin-tight” trousers, leggings and jeans.
Mrs Peers’ letter said: “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.”
She asked parents to respond with their views on the proposal by March 10.
Mr Sargeant said he understood uniform helped to create “a sense of inclusion and equality” but suggested enforcing a policy of wearing “tailored trousers or skirts”.
He said: “If uniform is an issue then of course that should be dealt with and the head teacher would have my full support in that.”
Mr Sargeant has written to Ms Peers to this effect, urging her to take parents’ and pupils’ views into consideration when making her final decision.
Ian Budd, chief officer for education and youth at Flintshire Council, said it was the school’s decision but urged parents to take part in the consultation.
He said: “I would urge parents and carers to give their opinions to the school during the consultation period, which has been extended to 10 March.
“The governing body will then consider the views expressed during the consultation in conjunction with Welsh Government guidance on school uniform policy, which makes it clear that governors must consider the implications of uniform policy in terms of equalities and affordability, before making an informed decision.”
The schoolboy who set up the petition, David Bishop, told the Daily Post: “I feel enforcing a ban on trousers for female students is outrageous. I understand the head teacher wants to stop the wearing of denim and leggings, but the school already have a uniform policy and I don’t know why they can’t enforce it by sending pupils home to change or use isolation.
“Some male students also wear jeans, so why is it these rules are not enforced for them? I think forcing females to wear skirts is gender discrimination.”