Uniform Policy Updates

From Mr. Dalton

Amendments to School Uniform and Appearance Guidelines:

In 2017, a group of senior students led a process of community consultation regarding the Aquinas College uniform as part of a class project. This consultation sought feedback from students, staff and families. As a result of this consultation, several recommendations were made to modify the uniform and appearance guidelines. As new Principal, I am very impressed by this process of students influencing social change. We have considered this feedback carefully and I can advise that we have responded positively to the recommendations in redefining the uniform and appearance guidelines. I shared these new guidelines with students at assembly. In doing so, I urged them to work in partnership with us to ensure they have the utmost pride in our College. Wearing their uniform and meeting these guidelines consistently and correctly is a fundamental way of doing this. I will hold our students to the highest level of accountability relative to these new guidelines. I have included the amendments that have been made to the uniform and appearance guidelines below.

Aquinas College Uniform and Appearance Guidelines

We believe it is important that our students are always dressed correctly and only wear items on the uniform list. We know this will give our students a sense of belonging and create an identity for the College in the community. Full school uniform is to be worn between College and home, both ways.

Hairstyle

Hair must be neatly presented, off the face, a natural colour, tidy and tied back when longer than the collar. Extreme hairstyles are not permitted – all haircuts and colour are at the Principal’s discretion.

Jewellery

A wrist watch, and one plain stud or sleeper in each ear are permitted. No other piercings allowed.

Cultural / Religious Taonga

Taonga that carries cultural and/or religious significance are permitted and can be worn proudly.

Makeup

Natural makeup for basic skin coverage is permitted only. No other makeup, including nail polish is allowed.

Facial Hair

Facial hair is not permitted.

Tattoos

Tattoos (except those that have cultural and/or religious significance) that would be visible when the summer or winter uniform is worn, are not permitted.

Incorrect Uniform

A student with a uniform problem must bring a signed note from a parent/caregiver and obtain a uniform pass from the Tutor Teacher. This must be done before the school day begins. Otherwise, an after school service may be issued.

There were also recommendations made with respect to the modification of the Uniform Policy itself, including, but not limited to the inclusion of a skort, shorts and trouser options for girls. These recommendations require further review due to the implications to our uniform suppliers.

One change to the uniform that has been made at this point is to allow the girls to wear the boys jersey option instead of the cardigan if they so wish to.