The NSW Department of Education has responded to concerned parents of Narooma High School students, after a number of parents alleged the school is being too strict upholding its uniform policy.
With jackets and beanies from home not being allowed to be worn at school, despite the cold weather that’s hit the South Coast and slight variations in uniform resulting in students being written up according to one concerned mother.
In a Facebook post by the school last week, they stated “Students continually out of uniform may receive further consequences for continual disobedience.”
However a NSW Department of Education spokesperson said in a statement on Friday (June 24) there are a range of options, including jumpers and jackets, to keep students warm which can be found at the online uniform shop which is open onsite one day a week and the uniform is available at some local shops as well.
The Department said “Students are allowed to wear beanies and gloves to and from school and when outdoors.”
Any change the school uniform of a NSW public school is a matter for the local school, in consultation with their school community.
Schools expect students to wear the uniform during school hours, while travelling to and from school, and when engaged in school activities out of school hours.
The concerned mother told East Coast Radio “I would love to see the school be a bit more flexible with the uniform, and wearing the logo, and spend their time and energy on the things that really matter, like mental health and wellbeing.”
“I was worried about even having this discussion and I thought what’s the point, it’s probably not going to change anything,” she said.
“I don’t think the school values parents’ opinions, even if the opinions are on mass,” the mother said.
The Departnment of Education said parents who are facing financial difficulties, or who have feedback or concerns about the school uniform at Narooma High are encouraged to contact the principal.
Image Credit: Stitches Batemans Bay, Narooma High School/Facebook, Google Maps
