Gender Neutral School Uniform Policies

We look at the recent movement in schools towards gender neutral school uniforms and the legal duties of schools in relation to uniform policies.

Priory School in Lewes, East Sussex has joined the growing number of schools in the UK to have a gender neutral uniform policy. All year 7s starting at the school this September are required to wear school uniform trousers, while those in years 8 and upwards have the choice of whether to continue wearing the current uniform (of trousers for boys and trousers or a skirt for girls) or adopt the new, updated uniform.

It is reported that the school decided to make the changes to its uniform policy to ensure that an increasing number of transgender pupils feel included. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the length of the skirts worn by some of the pupils and the school website states that "this uniform has been designed specifically in response to the many issues and suggestions raised by parents, students and