A SCHOOL is to change its uniform for the first time in nearly 20 years.

Stanway School is to replace the navy blue jumper worn by girls and boys with a navy blazer.

A new school tie will be introduced and a new, knee-length tartan skirt.

Pupils not wanting to wear a skirt will still be allowed to wear black trousers if they wish.

Co-headteacher Jonathan Bland said the changes, starting from this September, were brought in because pupils wanted to look smarter.

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He said: “We felt Stanway has had an expansion and it was probably a good time to update the uniform.”

The Winstree Road school underwent a £6.9 million transformation last year which included a new multi-use games area, new science laboratories and design and technology rooms, plus new food outlet area and courtyard area.

The Gainsborough block was also demolished and replaced with a new arts and music block.

Mr Bland added: “For several years now the students have been asking if it would be possible to move to a blazer.

“That is something they see other schools having, I think there are times they don’t feel as smartly dressed as other schools.”

Gazette:

The new skirt will replace a black version and Mr Bland said the pleated tartan skirt had been a “popular option” when students were asked.

Boys and girls will be able to continue to wear white shirts.

The student council suggested the uniform changes and then asked the rest of the pupils what options they would prefer. Parents were also consulted.

Mr Bland said: “We got a mixed reception but we have to listen to the majority and find a way forward.”

New Year Sevens joining the school in September will need to wear the uniform with students in other year groups required to wear it from September 2019.

However, a pupil going into Year 11 in September 2019 would still be allowed to wear the old style uniform if they wish.

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