Calls for 'more affordable' school uniform put forward by Dorset youth parliamentarian
Stanley Bowden wants to see cheaper brands used and swap shops set up
Dorset’s youth parliamentarian says he’s on a mission to make uniform more accessible, practical, and affordable.
The campaign asks school to use cheaper brands and set up places where students can swap their old uniforms.
Stanley Bowden, a member of Youth Parliament and student at Colfox School in Bridport has been campaigning on school uniform for two years.
He wants schools to be “more accommodating” and “ease the financial pressure on families” during the cost-of-living crisis.
Stanley said: “I think schools could use cheaper brands for uniforms and set up places where students can swap their old uniforms.
"I'd also like students to have more personal autonomy with their uniform and use it to express themselves.”
Part of the campaign is to give pupils more personal autonomy with their school clothes including removable school logos so pupils can wear the uniform outside of school.
The introduction of a 'uniform rating system' that score uniforms on comfort, practicality and cost has also been put forward.
He added: "My school has made some really positive changes to its uniform policy and my fellow students now have more freedom in what they wear.”
The campaign has received a positive response from other youth parliament members and the schools in Dorset he has contacted.
Cllr Byron Quayle, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Children, Education and Early Help said: "It's good to see young voices like Stanley being heard in the community.”
“The Dorset Youth Parliament provides a brilliant opportunity for young people to have their say and to be listened to."