Student Dress Code Policy

From Tom Drummond

Assistant Principal and School Council Member

Student Dress Code Policy - Community Consultation

Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate in NMPS School Council’s recent Student Dress Code Policy survey. We received just over 300 responses from parents, carers, staff and students.

Across the survey, families told us that the current Student Dress Code Policy is generally respectful of the school community’s cultural norms and values, but that there are also aspects of the policy that many members of the community would like to see renewed. 

Many appreciated that the policy allows flexibility, supports SunSmart habits, maintains a focus on safety, and on clothing that allows children to be ready for learning and play. 

It was clear from the responses that the community holds a wide range of views about the role of uniform at NMPS. A significant number of respondents favoured the introduction of a compulsory uniform, citing reasons such as a stronger sense of school pride and identity, equity, reduced social pressure, student safety when in public, and practical benefits for families. At the same time, another significant group of respondents voiced support for maintaining an optional uniform, emphasising individuality, cultural expression, financial accessibility and the belief that freedom of dress is an important part of the NMPS culture. Across both groups, many responses highlighted the importance of ensuring that any approach to student dress remains inclusive, respectful and developmentally appropriate.

In discussing the survey responses, School Councillors noted that the word ‘uniform’ was being interpreted in many ways: to refer to the current optional items, to refer to uniforms typical of with private or other government schools, or to refer to school clothing from adult respondents’ own childhoods.

We also heard several concerns about how aspects of the current policy are interpreted and enforced. Families gave mixed feedback about the clarity of expectations, especially regarding items such as makeup, jewellery, footwear, and short clothing. While some families would like more consistent enforcement, others expressed caution about rules that may inadvertently place too much focus on children’s bodies or create unnecessary conflict. Respondents also asked for visuals to support the policy, with examples and explanations that would help students and families understand what is expected and why. 

Feedback about the current optional uniform itself was also very strong. While many families were satisfied with the items available, many written comments referred to ongoing problems with stock availability, long wait times, unclear shop hours and difficulty accessing some items. These issues created frustration for families who do choose to purchase uniform items, and many suggested the need to improve both supply and purchasing processes. A number of respondents also suggested setting up a second-hand uniform shop to give families a low-cost option that encourages sustainability.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this survey. Before the end of the year, the School Council will conduct another round of community consultation to further inform its decision-making.