Uniform Policy

Birchgrove Public School Uniform Policy

Birchgrove Public School established it's uniform Policy with the help of our parent community and staff, through a series of meetings and a parent survey. During the first meeting a uniform committee was formed to oversee the process.  In accordance with DET guidelines our uniform reflects school community standards and is consistent with occupational health and safety, anti-discrimination and equal opportunity legislation. A uniform dress code reinforces in students a pride in their own appearance, instils recognition of themselves as an integral part of the school community, and assists in developing pride in representing their school.

The uniform committee has developed a uniform policy that we believe provides choice for the students, allows for students to safely engage in the many varied school activities, and caters for the financial constraints of families.

Guidelines:
Students are expected to wear the school uniform because it provides:
•    identification with the school,
•    a sense of pride in belonging to this school,
•    security, as any strangers among students can be easily identified
•    equity, since students do not feel that they have to dress competitively,
•    the opportunity for students to feel respect for themselves and others because of their positive image,
•    To provide durable clothing that is cost effective and practical for the school environment,
•    To maintain and enhance the positive image of the school in the community.

Procedures and Standards:
•    Correct uniform must be worn at all times by students, unless especially advised.
•    Summer and winter uniforms as well as sports uniforms will be prescribed, and are required to be worn. It is recommended that fabrics with a sun safe factor rating are used.
•    The uniform policy applies during school hours, when students are on excursions and/or when representing the school for functions and sport.
•    Stud earrings and sleepers worn in the ears, plus watches are the only acceptable jewellery.
•    Make up and nail polish is not part of school uniform.
•    The only headwear that is acceptable is sunsafe hats consistent with our ‘No Hat, No Play' policy or headwear required by religious beliefs. They must be worn outside during recess, lunch, sport and any other outside activity. Hats must not be worn inside.
•    Appropriate footwear is fully enclosed shoes black school shoes and black or white sports shoes on sports days.
•    The P&C Uniform Committee will operate a second hand uniform pool for parents, as well as a uniform shop. The uniform shop can also be accessed on the school website. The uniform shop is open between 8am and 10am Thursdays during school terms. Other opening times are advertised in the newsletter.
•    The student uniform, including details and places of purchase, will be published in the parent handbook and grade booklet at the start of each school year.
•    The Principal will be responsible for the implementation of the uniform policy, with assistance from staff and the school community.
•    Parents seeking exemptions to the uniform due to religious beliefs, ethnic or cultural background, student disability, health condition or economic hardship must apply in writing to the Principal.

Strategies to be used if an individual student is non-compliant:
•     Speaking to the student in private to encourage wearing of the school uniform
•     Providing a verbal warning to the student
•     Providing advice to the parents by means of a phone call or letter from the Principal
•     Inviting the parents to school to discuss the situation with Principal or another staff member
•     Negotiating an appropriate cause of action with the students and parents

Outcomes:
•     All students wear school uniform proudly
•    The school community is supportive of the uniform policy
•     The school uniform is attractive, comfortable and functional
•    The school uniform enhances the school image

Evaluation: This policy will be reviewed as part of the school's 3 year review cycle. (due 2012)


LEGISLATION AND DEPARTMENTAL POLICY
The uniform policy is to be informed by the following: Under the NSW Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 (OH&S Act) http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/nsw/consol_act/ohasa2000273/ the department of Education and Training must ensure that students are not exposed to risks to their health or safety while they are on Departmental Premises.
Student Welfare Policy (PD/2002/0052/V001) http://www.det.nsw.edu.au/policies/student_serv/stud
ent_welfare/stude_welf/PD20020052.shtml sets out the framework for student welfare in NSW public
schools.
Protection from the Sun: Guidelines to Assist in Implementing the Student Welfare Policy (PD/2002/0055/V001)
http://www.det.nsw.edu.au/policies/student_serv/stud ent_health/protec_sun/PD20020055.shtml provides advice about how schools can take action to protect students from the sun.

 References/Appendices:
1. DET School Uniform Policy
2. School Uniforms in NSW Government Schools
3. Sun Smart Information and Support Material
4. Protection from the Sun –Guidelines to assist in implementing the Student Welfare Policy