Uniform Proposals Spark Positive Debate

Recent focus in local press about new Sixth Form uniform proposals have sparked positive discussion.

When asked for a statement by the Coventry Telegraph, a spokesperson for Coventry School Foundation said:

“We have been looking at our sixth form dress code for a while to ensure our standards are maintained. Both King Henry VIII and Bablake Schools have either consulted or are in the process of consulting with parents, pupils, staff and governors about the possibility of introducing a selection of standardised suits for both boys and girls rather than the current vaguer interpretation of smart business wear. There is quite a range – with several different styles and colours.

We have had an external supplier let us have samples, which some pupils within the foundation have been shown and tried out. If we decide to introduce the policy, it will not come in for anyone currently in the sixth form, but would be introduced when the current year 11 pupils move into the sixth form. There is no cost yet fixed and we are currently negotiating with the potential supplier.”​

Mr John Watson, Headmaster, said: "We see this primarily as a change of emphasis, with smart business-like appearance remaining an expectation - albeit purchased from a good-value range ordered through our school outfitters. It is a shame that discussion with our school community over proposals has been clouded by misleading reporting."

Mr Mark Woodward, Head of Careers and one of the Bablake staff who helped instigate the school's Feminist Society, added:

"I am encouraged by the discussion the new dress code proposals have engendered. I am pleased that the range of professional business wear appears non-gender specific and will still allow our dynamic Sixth Form students the chance to stand out individually. They will continue by their actions to be seen as impressive role models for the younger pupils."

Recent press discussion has been overwhelmingly positive and educational; all in a stellar week for Bablake. The school has won two national awards for its website and social media; one of our pupils, Kare Adenegan won her class at the London Mini Marathon and is now looking to be selected for the 2016 Paralympics in Rio; another, Peter Cusack, has won a bronze medal with the U23 GB team in Dubai at a World Wheelchair Basketball tournament; two of our Sixth Form girls have made a national statement, via their RSC Chemistry UK Gold Olympiad certificates, that science is open to any student; the Daily Telegraph also featured my own views on feminism as a parent and the work of our Feminist Society; and finally Bablake has been talking to White Ribbon about a partnership. I look forward to this good news (and more) being celebrated alongside that from other schools in the city in the local press and online!"