Five Item Limit On 'Bespoke' School Uniform

Thursday, 21 December 2023 at 07:00

Jersey's government is making it compulsory for its schools to have a maximum of five branded or bespoke items of uniform from September 2026.

The Education Department wants to reduce costs for parents after a report found that uniforms are one of the most expensive factors of a child's education.

The recent review by the competition watchdog, the JCRA, found some schools have up to 40% bespoke or branded uniforms.

It concluded it would be cheaper for parents if there were fewer compulsory pieces of clothing.

The new policy of a maximum of five items will include PE kits.

It will be fully-implemented in States schools from September 2026.

Education Minister Deputy Inna Gardiner hopes it addresses parents' concerns:

"Public concern over the cost of uniforms is also echoed by children, and every small saving we can make matters while we are in a cost-of-living crisis.

I have intentionally included a transition period within this policy so that children can continue to wear their current uniform with no need to rush and buy new items in the immediate future."

A debate between Year 5 pupils showed that parents are not the only people worried about costs, as it was a key argument the youngsters made against wearing a uniform.

Students also said that the quality can vary, with some being 'cold and itchy'.

Deputy Inna Gardiner says this gives the department a chance to improve uniform policy, and parents can buy other options which may be more comfortable for their children.

"This is an opportunity to engage with potential new suppliers to improve that going forward."

The five-item policy will not apply to private and fee-paying schools.