Delay the introduction of school uniform at Avanti Park School

Comments

#1

Tia would also like to sign her name. She intensely dislikes grey and thinks Avanti should keep to what they said about no uniform until at least sept 2021.

I agree with all points as listed by Rose and am personally appalled that a school that is supposed to pride itself in good behaviour should model such a lack of integrity as to go back upon what they have promised - again. It is hardly a good example for our children.

Uniforms, particularly of the formal tie and blazer variety, are old-fashioned, outdated, and hardly what I would expect from a supposedly pioneering school. Even the corporate world nowadays widely shuns them!

Grey is a horrendous shade - it is a literal absence of colour - not even on the colour spectrum - and extremely far removed from the colourful world our children have come from. I suspect this is deliberate.

To suggest that the children wear cheap, artificial materials from supermarkets in the form of this uniform goes against what many parents believe in - re. respecting the environment and our children. As a sensory sensitive child Tia is used to wearing organic basics as a base layer, not uncomfortable fabrics with possible chemical finishes.

I decided to give the school a chance, despite the fact that we had been promised a Steiner-inspired school and were now not getting it, partly based upon the fact that there were to be no uniforms in this academic year.

To do this partway through the year shows a complete lack of concern for our children, and parents, at this unsettling time that we are in. It will put financial pressure upon parents that have little spare cash at an incredible challenging time. It makes it more difficult to uproot the children for something new.

Zosia Durniat (FROME, 2020-10-12)

#3

I cannot afford a uniform.i am concerned about cleanliness of students in regards to covid 19 wearing the same clothes daily. Grey is a dull colour...

Lauren Walker (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#4

I want you to follow what you initially stated which was a review next school year

Jamie Wood (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#5

I am signing because we were led to believe following the curriculum review that our children would not have to wear a uniform to attend Avanti Park until September 2021. On this basis, I stocked up on a range of appropriate winter clothes/boots for my daughter to wear to school at the end of the summer, most of which will become redundant if she has to start wearing the stipulated uniform in January 2021. We were also led to believe we would be consulted on the uniform - and it could well be that certain aspects of what has been proposed do not sit well with the parent body (such as the colour grey forming the main colour tone). By introducing the uniform earlier than planned, it also negates the possibility of making the uniform more meaningful through doing creative activities with the children in the lead up to its introduction.

Rebecca Fine (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#6

One of the reasons I chose this school was it’s lack of uniform... I do not believe we need to buy yet more clothing, when they are already kitted out with practical comfortable clothing of their own. Where’s the consultation???

Kerry Render (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#7

For integrity, I feel the school should honour the original date of Sept 2021, and furthermore the statement that this would be reviewed, be upheld and actually reviewed with parents.

Jelena Ivanovic (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#12

We were told that a uniform wouldn’t be introduced until Sept ‘21. Many parents have spent money on new shoes for school, clothes that are school appropriate etc with a view that these would be needed for most of the autumn and winter terms.

Claire Zarb-Owen (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#14

I am signing because I believe that Avanti should follow a consultation process.

Sal Steeple (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#16

My main issue is the earlier introduction with no consultation with parents at all.

Rachel Paulin (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#17

All of the above, but most concerned at this point about reason 1 - Avanti Trust going back in their word.

Niina Kuosmanen (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#18

Hi there,

I have just invested in new socks, joggers and plain (no picture) tops specifically for school and to respect covid guidelines that clothes should be washed daily.

This was on the basis (and school communication) that school uniform was not going to be in place til next September. These are colourful and do not conform to the outlined uniform policy.

While I appreciate that branded uniform will be provided free of charge, I have spent this money unecessarily and, as a low-income parent on a budget, I am unhappy to now face buying school trousers tops and socks again. I’m sure other parents will feel similarly.

I have no fundamental objection to uniform but the change of plan is very unwelcome.

Please consider making uniform optional until Sep 2021, in honour of your promise not to introduce uniform before then. Perhaps children can be encouraged to wear their branded jumpers over own clothes.

Alice

Alice Irving (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#19

I wholeheartedly agree with the above points and believe that for Avanti to gain parents’ trust it is imperative that they stick to their word on this matter

Melanie Dalton (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#21

The timing of introducing a uniform is grossly unfair to parents. We have just spent money on school clothing for the coming year, half of which will now become useless. In addition, the timing of the introduction immediately following Christmas will impact parents already struggling financially. Delay until Sept 2021.

Kirsty Jackson (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#22

I have just spent money on school clothes and now I have to buy a uniform as well. It was originally going to be September and we had no knowledge it was going to be brought forward.

Gwen Liby (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#25

I totally disagree with ther reasons for introducung a uniform in Jan 21.

Tracy Duggan (Wiltshire, 2020-10-12)

#32

I do not want my daughter wearing black and grey. I don’t want her wearing mass produced acrylic fibres. I will take her out of school when uniforms come in. I’d like her to at least finish the year there. The way you delivered this information was shockingly insensitive.

Dorrie Joy (Shepton Mallet, 2020-10-12)

#35

The school said the school uniform wouldn’t be introduced until sept 2021 . Please keep your word in something

Alicia Cervera (Froem, 2020-10-12)

#37

I do not agree with the introduction of uniform, especially when we were promised it would not be introduced untill September 2021, another promise broken. I also do not agree with the uniform especially in regards to shoes, in the winter months boots are a necessity.

claira le marchand (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#38

For practical, economical, community-cohesion and child wellbeing reasons I support the call to delay the introduction of a school uniform until September 2021.

Kate Norris (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#41

I am not against uniform specifically but having already bought clothes specifically for school for this academic year we would find it difficult financially to buy two sets of uniform for January. I would rather buy my daughter a Christmas present... Finances are difficult for so many right now so please consider delaying until September which is what we were all expecting.

Claire Rosling (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#43

I feel strongly that pushing the introduction of uniform is a grave mistake at this moment when we are collectively looking to stabilise the school and establish positive collaboration and shared ownership between management and parents. A look around at drop off would quickly show that this parent body doesn't agree that self esteem is best expressed in a blazer. We tend to value dignity, curiosity and kindness over formality. There are other more creative ways of establishing a refreshed school culture.

Wendy Hubbard (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#45

I agree wholeheartedly with the points raised in the petition. Furthermore, I am concerned that the focus on a mode of dressing that epitomises an outdated paradigm (ties, blazers, polo/v neckline, no boots) does not adequately prepare my children for the 21st century world of work that awaits them, which will comprise a range of environments, uniformed and otherwise. As a parent of two girls, I am also concerned by the increasing sexualisation of clothes being marketed at young children, and have been comforted throughout their Steiner years with the promotion of a sensible dress code, which permeates through to their wardrobes and autonomous dress choices both in and outside school. Most importantly, the proposed uniform does not provide for my childrens' fundamental learning need of wearing safe, comfortable and weather appropriate clothing that will enable teaching and free play to take place in both indoor and outdoor settings. In an FAQ document from 12th May 2020 provided by Abby Atkins, we were told that "In KS1-3 teachers have the freedom and flexibility to use the outdoors to support learning when they deem this the best format." The proposed new uniform (in contrast to a dress code of sensible, weather- appropriate clothing) will significantly compromise this freedom and flexibility. Furthermore, I was given to believe that ecological and ethical awareness are important to Avanti. Affordability reasons will make it difficult for parents to purchase school uniform items that haven't been manufactured using harmful synthetic materials and chemicals, and whose suppliers guarantee workers' rights. Finally, the potential issue of peer pressure can be successfully managed by active promotion of the current dress code, which from parental observation has not been the case since September 2020. I am however aware that the implementation of wet play, for children in small classrooms with no scope for movement, and the limited play space available to them for use outdoors, has negatively affected my eldest daughter's peer group interactions on more than one occasion already- and winter is just around the corner. Thank you in advance for considering the above points. I am hopeful that these will be received with meaningful engagement.

Kate Bevan (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#47

I was under the impression that the uniform would not be implemented until September 2021. I have already spent money buying ‘school’ clothes for my children this year. I bought lots of plain clothes for them to wear specifically for school use. The school asked that they did not wear logos or pictures and I complied by buying them new clothes. Please can we wait until September 2021 for the uniform. Perhaps by then the pandemic will be under control. I feel another lockdown is imminent and I have reservations about sending my children in if the infection rates continue to rise. In my opinion it would be a waste to invest in a school uniform at present.

Sophie Jones (Chapmanslade, 2020-10-12)

#49

We have already invested in winter clothes and boots, under the impression uniform was not being introduced until September 2021. I have no objection to uniform, but with it being brought in when seasonal clothing has already been purchased.

Amy Crawshaw (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#50

I absolutely disagree with with the reasoning given for the introduction of the uniform. I'm also outraged by the timing of these changes and the degree to which parent's wishes are not being taken into account by Avanti.

Ganna Kovalevska (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#51

Introduction of uniform is bad for infection control.
There is no evidence of "competitive dressing" that the introduction of uniform claims to avoid.

Elia Takkos (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#54

This is not what Avanti said they would do. I have just bought the next 6 months worth of clothes. Also if we are expected to change clothes everyday due to covid this is even more money to spend. We have not been consulted at all.

Sophia Steadman (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#55

All of the above reasons.

Barry Derham (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#57

For many of the reasons above. I'm a single parent on low income and benefits. I would need to budget for this sort of thing. I cannot currently afford this new uniform, particularly shoes.

Georgina Evason (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#58

I feel it is too early to bring in these changes, I’ve now bought all the boys winter clothes which I feel are appropriate for the weather and reception environment which involves a lot of muddy outdoor play. A proper parent consultation and introduction in sept 2021 at earliest would be much better.

Amelie Brun (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#60

I detest uniform. I went to a Steiner school so have never worn a uniform and there was never any pier pressure, teasing or competition in relation to clothing. When you're allowed to be individual, clothing ceases to be an issue. I really don't understand why schools insist on uniform. I had really hoped that Avanti would decide against a uniform for this school as a result of how so many of the parents from the Steiner community feel about the subject.

Lucy Goldsack (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#61

The introduction of school uniform at this time is an unnecessary disruption to the lives of children and parents in the middle of the school year. Waiting until a new school year makes much more sense both in terms of the disruptive nature of the changes to our children and the expense to parents who have already spent money on winter clothes for school. Money is limited, our jobs over the coming months are uncertain and we do not need the added financial outgoing heaped on to us at this time.

Philip Morgan (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#62

Avanti had said no uniforms til September 2021.
It's too late in the season , Winter wardrobe already purchased. We don't even know if schools will remain open ! Also, Year 7 should be exempt like the rest of secondary school.

Nathalie Sergent (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#63

I am signing this petition as I feel very strongly about this

Christine Rowe (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#64

Yet another example of how Avanti says one thing and does another. This was not supposed to happen until Sep 2021. This is the worst way to build trust and engagement with the parent community.

Also another example of how out of touch you are with our school community if you think we are ok with this.

My child is a colourful child. Colours promote happiness - please don't force her to wear gray - the drabbest of all 'colours' like some mindless automaton.

We cherish her right to express her individuality with her own choice of clothing and have never seen any example whatsoever of 'competition' regarding clothing at school.

I fully support all of the points in this petition and feel angry and dismayed at how often you disregard and disrespect the traditions and culture of this school community.

Please rethink this insulting decision.

Jon Pickard (Bruton, 2020-10-12)

#67

Avanti Trust had promised a parents concsultation for introduction for September 2021. Also, fossil fuel based polyester is leaching into our food, water, ecosystems and all living creatures, not sustainable.

Frank Schmidt (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#69

Because I consider that a formal uniform is outdated and unnecessary

Chris Tivey (Shepton Mallet, 2020-10-12)

#70

I don't believe that school uniform will improve the children's quality of education.

zillah engerran (bruton, 2020-10-12)

#71

The school have gone back on previous commitment to delay uniform introduction until Sep 2021, a consultation was promised to parents and communicated in the Frome Times when the Principal took up her post in Summer 2020, I have already invested in winter clothing and shoes for my children to wear at school this year, no other middle schools in Frome wear blazers, we are in the midst of a global pandemic which are children are adapting to - further change is unnecessary and not in the children's best interests, my children will be very upset by this news. This appears to be solely a marketing effort from the school and that is unfair to existing parents

Keir Haines (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#73

I object to school uniform at any time but especially at this time.

Ben Hiron-Grimes (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#75

It's unnecessary and not even put up for discussion, despite parents being told it would be.

Ben MacFarlan (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#82

I feel strongly about the the concerns raised in this petition.

Jude Greenan (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#85

I don’t want my daughter wearing a uniform. It takes away her individuality along with the other children.
It’s not practical clothing for children.
“Dress for success” What complete and utter bollocks!!!

Ivan Turland (Warminster, 2020-10-12)

#86

I agree with the above points

Stuart Dalton (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#88

Avanti communicated that any change in uniform policy would be implemented in Sept '21.
We have all already kitted out our children with school clothes/shoes/boots etc deemed suitable as per Avanti's original guidance over the summer. This is an amount of money most of us are unable to spend all over again, especially for the sake of Avanti going against the very information they originally gave out. And at a time where plenty of clothing is necessary for extra washing. And right after Christmas, a financially strenuous time in many households. And at a time where jobs will have already been lost and will continue to be uncertain for months to come yet.
The timing, and indeed timescale, of this change in policy seems totally unreasonable, thoughtless and inconsiderate.
I am also concerned by what looks to be an impractical choice of clothing for the outlined uniform. It doesn't look warm enough given that the current covid guidance includes leaving windows and doors open in classrooms for added ventilation. Shoes with no option for boots seems impractical during winter months especially given the push for students to walk to school, in part to be good neighbours and reducing the traffic on Park Rd. Are we to assume that if this uniform choice is indeed practical that staff will also not feel the need or inclination to wear sandles on a hot sunny day or boots on a cold wet winters one?
From a safety point of view, the colours are dark and drab which will lead to reduced visibility of our children whilst walking along side of and crossing roads. This really concerns me, I know of at least 3 incidents of children having been hit by cars on busy roads in direct proximity to our school. We are surrounded on all sides by busy roads. I expect there have been other instances of accidents like this too.
On another point, seemingly against the Avanti philosophy, I am concerned with the choice to promote the buying of possibly unsustainable, possibly unethical clothing made from potentially unsustainable and environmentally unfriendy fabrics. I think this needs a more in depth consideration. Most of us would only be able to afford this type of uniform from places like supermarkets. Has there been consideration for those of us who would prefer to buy ethically, sustainably and responsibly? Surely with the climate crisis as it is, this is something for us to be considering carefully.
Our daughter is in her 6th year at the school. Not once have we had an experience of competitive attitudes amongst the children due to their clothing. A dress code that has promoted simple, natural, practical clothing choices without logos, branding and large pictures etc has always seemed to work at keeping these kinds of attitudes at bay in our experience and the wider experience of friends that we have been aware of.
Please consider these and everyone else's opinions very carefully and we look forward to your considered response.

Joanna Harling (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#90

All of the above reasons, especially the financial reasons, as our income has been severely affected by the pandemic

Matt Thacker (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#91

I don’t want my daughters individuality compromised by wearing a uniform- especially a tie and blazer! I don’t buy any of the reasons for a uniform I just believe the dress code needs to be sensibly and consistently enforced.

Kirsty Staines (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#92

I don't agree with uniforms but even if it has to happen i am not welcoming this extra expense, especially shoes and socks. As well i will not buy uniform for each day..nor anyone else i expect so the fact that we will be sending our child in the same clothes each day is an increased covid risk.

Mandy Booth (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#93

I am appalled that Avanti have reneged on their written declaration to have a patent consultation prior to potentially introducing uniforms.
How are we to trust this physically absent leadership?
“ Dress for success”? In a nylon grey uniform? Whose idea if success is this?
With a Free polyester jumper? Are you serious Avanti?
Please show more integrity and respect for your previous promises.

Alex Carthew (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#95

I do not agree with Avanti Park bringing in a uniform in January 2021.

Alexandra Buchi-Parr (Frome, 2020-10-12)

#99

I am signing this petition because during this time of upheaval and uncertainty, the last thing the children need is another change.
I also thought that it was stated by Avanti that school uniform would not be introduced this academic year.

Cathy Smith (Frome, 2020-10-13)

#100

The introduction of the school uniform wasn’t expected until September 2021 and seems rushed and badly timed with the general uncertainty around COVID.
I feel there needs to be a consultation process as promised as some elements of the suggested uniform seem old fashioned and unnecessary. An example of this being the introduction of a blazer for year 7 and children not being allowed to wear warm boots in winter and sandals in summer. In my opinion kids all around the world should be encouraged to dress weather appropriately (self care!), comfortably and whenever possible sustainably. How about involving the children in this process through the student council?

Jennifer Blakeman (Frome, 2020-10-13)

#101

I’m signing for all the reasons give above.

Plus I think the cultural symbolism of a tie around the neck and a stiff blazer completely at odds to creating a comfortable learning environment. Respect and pride for oneself and our related peers comes from within and in our approach to relationships, not from our appearance.

Laura Corfield (Frome, 2020-10-13)

#104

Please keep To the original plan to introduce uniform from Sept 2021, not in middle of the school year. All children grow quickly and it would need another replacement set in near future. Also with pandemic laundering rules there are additional items needed, thus increasing expense. Let the families have sovreignity over clothing, reducing expense and maintaining a sense of normality and wellbeing in these extremely stressful and uncertain times

Kathryn Lloyd-Nunn (Stroud, 2020-10-13)

#108

Avanti told us no uniform till September
Looking for suggestions as to how we can let Avanti know this is unacceptable as well as this petition?
Talk of a strike and refusing to wear uniform but my son might find this brings up anxiety for him.
I had to wear uniform at school and hated it. Made me feel like I was wearing a suit/going to work when I was 11 years old
I really don’t like “dressed for success”
Written by Bart Cooper as I didn’t write anything with my signature...

to me an education is so much more than preparing a child for being “successful” it’s an opportunity for a child to learn, be creative, and grow into a full caring kind human being.
Written by Hannah.

Hannah Roberts (Frome, 2020-10-13)

#109

Because its just another expense I can't afford as a single mum.

Laurie Baird (Frome, 2020-10-13)

#112

I’m signing because I understood that school uniform was not coming until next September, therefore I have bought winter clothes for my girls, non-picture tops and jumpers And enough to allow for a change of clothes each day due to COVID. Secondly, many schools are not enforcing there usual uniform at this time of a pandemic and so this is very untimely. We do not know what the future holds and whether schools could be closed for periods of time.

Shanon Collett (Frome, 2020-10-13)

#117

It was clearly stated that this change would be introduced in September 2021.

Rachael Cave (Frome, 2020-10-13)

#119

Uniforms are stinky. Period.
Evolve.

Though if you really must for whatever arcane and fanciful justifications you believe, at least wait until September -as we were told.

mark pavey (Frome, 2020-10-14)

#121

Because the timing of this is patently unfair

Drew Gardner (Frome, 2020-10-14)

#122

I‘m German and never have worn a uniform in my live. Germany is a perfect example that uniforms aren’t necessary.
Colours influence our being and while some children would thrive wearing grey and black others would not.

Simone Salewski (Frome, 2020-10-14)

#123

I do not agree with uniform

Kayleigh Allenby (Frome, 2020-10-14)

#126

Beyond the points above, it is hard to find uniform in sustainable materials and we endeavour to avoid buying synthetic plastic derived clothes for environmental reasons. Something to bear in mind.

Hannah Neville Green (Holcombe, Radstock, 2020-10-14)

#128

Where possible I choose natural materials for my Yr7 son's clothes. He agrees that he concentrates better and it is more hygenic. Many uniforms contains polyester, and some uniforms, worrying, are coated with teflon.
I object to Avanti bringing this in early without consultation, and for September 2021 I would like reassurances about the materials used in the Avanti jumper and tie.

Jenny Exall (Frome, 2020-10-14)

#129

I have already brought my sons school uniform and would appreciate not having to buy anymore.

Aimee Cox (Frome, 2020-10-15)

#130

I want to be a part of a progressive school. Uniforms are Outdated. Grey suited children - wearing uncomfortable nylon clothing,
this is very sad.
Please keep your agreement and hold a consulatation next year about introducing uniforms September 2021. Thanks

Amelia Parisian (Frome, 2020-10-15)

#136

Definitely Not until 2021 as agreed, especially with a Global pandemic and money is very tight, def not grey, please blue, def No Blazers, I will take Poppy out of the school!

Sam Widdows (Frome, 2020-10-16)



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