An improvement in pupils’ behaviour, attendance and achievement at a Derby school is being attributed to the introduction of a uniform for the first time in the school’s history.
The Kingsmead School, which is spread across three sites in the city, brought in the uniform at the start of term after parents, pupils and staff voted unanimously to introduce it.
The school, which caters for children with social, emotional and mental health issues, has provided every child with a black sweatshirt and polo shirt to help embed the change in culture and expectations.
After five weeks teachers are reporting better behaviour from pupils, attendance levels have gone up and staff have noted a greater enthusiasm for learning across every site.
Pupils of Kingsmead School show off their new uniform, which has brought them a sense of unity.
Special school deputy Dave Burrows said: “We were certain that the introduction of a dress code would have an effect on pupils, but I think we’ve been surprised by just how striking the change has been.
“It’s brought in a genuine sense of belonging and unity both on site and in the community and behaviour and work ethic is significantly improved.
“Attendance has been brilliant and I’m sure this is in part related to the uniform. There’s no peer pressure and children from a range of backgrounds are on a level footing.”
Read more: Toyota apprentices grow their skills by creating a school garden at Kingsmead.
The Kingsmead School is made up of a special school in Brighton Road, in Alvaston, a hospital medical school based in Castleward and a pupil referral unit in Bridge Street.
Many of the pupils have sensory needs so the staff researched the most comfortable uniforms and allow pupils to wear black jogging bottoms and trainers, providing they are unbranded.
Mr Burrows added: “We sent questionnaires to parents and asked pupils to vote as well. Parents said it would take the pressure away from needing to provide the latest Nike top and although we weren’t necessarily expecting pupils to buy into the concept, they said they were very happy with it.
“The uniform embeds a culture where pupils are ready to learn, where they are proud of their school and is helping aid concentration and productivity.”
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