Do schools have to have a school uniform?

Schools are not legally required to have a uniform, but most of them do. Your school’s governing body decides the uniform policy. There’s government guidance called Developing School Uniform Policy that gives advice on this topic.

Do I have to wear a school uniform?

If your school has a uniform, you’re expected to follow it and could be disciplined if you don’t. A school might send you home to change if you’re not wearing the correct uniform, but they must consider things like:

• Your age
• How far you live from school
• Where your parents are at the time

A school can also exclude you for a few days if you break the uniform policy, for example, by dyeing your hair a bright colour or getting a piercing. This decision must be fair and reasonable, and it’s up to the Headteacher to decide.

Schools must also make sure they don’t discriminate against you. For instance, if you can’t cut your hair because of your religion or you need to wear a head covering, the school should take that into account.

What can I do if I do not agree with the uniform policy?

If you or your parents are unhappy with the school uniform policy, you can make a complaint to the school. For more information, see Complaints to schools.