‘No suspensions’ over uniform says school governor

Dozens of pupils at Hartford Church of England High School were taken out of lessons on the first day of term as a result of changes to the uniform policy.

Parents have been in uproar about the decision, with many claiming their children have been suspended or threatened with suspension.

However, the chair of governors, Jeremy Hunns, says no pupils have yet been suspended.

“We want everyone within our school community to be proud of our school and a key part of that is adhering to the school uniform policy that has always been in place,” he said.

“Our uniform policy, as in many schools, ensures that students feel part of the community, reducing peer pressure and helping to prevent bullying.”

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The changes to the uniform rules were introduced by new head teacher, Rachel Pickerill (Image: Newsquest)

Mr Hunns added: “On the first day of term the majority of our 1000-plus students arrived in appropriate uniform. A very small number, predominantly from older year groups, arrived in trainers.

“Following a staggered start to the day and assemblies for each year group, those with inappropriate footwear were asked to meet with pastoral staff to try to resolve the situation.

“The sports hall was used for this purpose during lesson three only. Students were provided with water and access to toilets was not denied. All students attended lessons and lunchtime from lesson four onwards.

“No student has been suspended for uniform irregularities.

“We remain committed to continually improving standards at our school, ensuring students enjoy the best education possible and maintaining our relationships with families.”

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The changes to the uniform policy were introduced by Rachel Pickerill when she was appointed as head teacher in April.

Mr Hunns explained that a letter explaining the policy was sent to all parents about this on April 24 with a follow-up letter on May 9 advising that, from September, trainers would be banned.

“We are aware that children’s feet grow quickly and for that reason delayed enforcement of the footwear rule until after the summer,” he added.

“We sent numerous reminders over the subsequent months and offered support to any parents worried about covering the costs.

“We believe this has given families enough time to ensure that students had adequate footwear for the start of the new term.”