School Uniform

School uniform can be a hot topic. In Australia (virtually) all schools adopt distinctive dress that marks out their community. Depending on the age and stage of students, there are varied reactions to this. In small pockets occasionally there is the claim that uniforms infringe on personal identity and so should be questioned. However, there is plenty of evidence/research that uniforms are a positive thing.

American actress Nia Long once wrote, “I think it’s a beautiful thing when you wear a uniform or a garb which represents a group of people, because what it immediately symbolizes is oneness, togetherness.”

With uniforms I like to reference oneness, unity and belonging. A School’s values are generally reflected in how the students wear them. Whilst I don’t believe we are better than other schools, or that uniform is the most important thing, I am convinced that the way we present creates a sense of oneness, unity and belonging that benefits us all. I loved the way that our NZ Tour group last year travelled, being dressed so impressively (on the formal and public occasions) and making a favourable impression.

Whilst students (mainly early adolescents) sometimes push back against conformity in school uniforms, there are plenty of benefits.

Promotes a Sense of Belonging
As a keen supporter of the Manly Sea Eagles, when I wear the Maroon and White, it tells people that I belong to that group. It is something of which I am proud, (despite my friends believing I am deluded). I would like to think that school is similar with our students symbolising their sense of ownership and belonging in the manner in which they wear our uniform and colours, both in and out of school. We are part of the same ‘tribe’.
Consistency
This is important in a school community with over 1000 students. There is a joint responsibility and it is the same for everybody. Consistency is important and collectively we own our reputation, together. There is equality and the standard applies to all. It isn’t just about ‘me’.
Preparation for the outside world
I sometimes joke that a student challenging hair length, earrings or a tie, is the same person who is happy to conform when a part-time job requires the same thing. There is much evidence that uniform expectations prepare children and teens for formal scenarios that we encounter in our lives beyond school. Many workplaces have dress and uniform requirements. Wearing a school uniform equips our children for this world. In many professional sporting contexts, the presentation of the group is the first focus, in preparation for competition.
Minimising peer pressure
Children are often under some form of peer pressure and adopting a school uniform can remove this at school. When everyone is required to wear the same uniform, with the same expectations, it avoids confusion. A quick survey of American schools demonstrates the struggles with dress competition at school.
Easy mornings for students and parents
As every parent knows, mornings are chaotic. It can be tricky enough to get yourself ready for work without having to worry about children. Uniforms make this much easier and create a helpful routine. Just ask some students how much longer it takes to get ready for a ‘mufti’ day.
Encourage Professionalism
Some evidence supports that school uniforms contribute positively to a child’s participation whilst at school. Their uniform develops an affinity with learning. Once they put it on, their purpose is to work hard at their studies. A sense of professionalism develops within each child, leading to more focus in the classroom.

As Principal, I am extremely proud of Calrossy and the wonderful reputation that has been developed in our School over 105 years. Wearing our uniform is one of the ways in which this is promoted and reinforced. Many locals tell me that they are able to recognise Calrossy as a positive school, simply by the way that students dress in our distinctive uniform.

Therefore I encourage our students to see themselves as a reflection on the School. It sends a positive message when our students look smart and are all dressed the same.

I also encourage parents to support us through reinforcing the high standards of dress and presentation. With our goal of Learning in Partnership, when parents and school support the same things, it provides consistency and security for the student body.

Uniform Hats

Dress hats have always been a part of the Calrossy (and William Cowper Anglican School) uniform for both boys and girls. We live in a harsh climate that requires hats for sun safety. (Sadly ignorance in my childhood now sees me visit the skin specialist way too regularly, too often having things burnt off my face.)

Whilst Calrossy hat rules have never varied, in recent years there has been less clarity around them and we have ended up with an odd mixture of caps, bucket hats and formal hats being worn. For some students, because they were not being worn, there has been a reluctance to conform. Noone Wearhouse also has had some supply problems, but these have now been resolved.

Following discussions amongst staff, many parents and with student leaders, we would like to reemphasise that all our students are expected/required to wear the Dress hat between home (not in the car or bus) and school, arriving with it on their head. There will be times around school when this is also required, depending on campus and activity.

There is a period of grace on this but it will be a consistent expectation following the Leave Weekend in the middle of Term 1. (For more information see the Uniform Guide.) Please note that this is not a new edict but a reinforcement of what have always been Calrossy expectations.

One challenge to our student body, in the Year of Courage, is to wear our Dress hats with pride. If it is good enough for the Farrer Boys to wear their hats around town so well, and the PLC Armidale girls to do similarly when out and about, the onus is on us to be just as well presented.

Opening of the Annie Parr Building

Last Monday following the Leader’s Induction, we held an official ceremony to acknowledge the formal opening of the Annie Parr Building. We acknowledged the Federal Government funding support (though Mr Joyce was an apology due to the sitting of Parliament in Canberra), the work of the Calrossy Foundation in raising funds/donations and individuals, groups and companies that contributed to the construction of the facility. The Mayor Cr Russell Webb, State Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson and representatives involved in building/design were present to be thanked. Our School Captains Tom Aitken and Olivia Coombes took an important part of the ceremony.

Who was Annie Parr and why name a building after her?

She was a former Tamworth Church of England Girls School Headmistress in the 1930s, who acted as a strong advocate for education of young women, led the formation of partnership with the Anglican Diocese, introduced the House System, established bursaries for students who couldn’t afford education and even paid for new teachers out of her own salary. Under her leadership the school doubled in size, developed new infrastructure (including what is now the Year 12 Study Centre) and she was notable in other areas beyond school. Annie was Headmistress of TCEGS for ten years, following six previous Heads in a short time.

Two nice touches were as follows:

Annie Parr was the Headmistress when the Phoebe Godfrey Cup for Champion House was instituted. It will be presented each year.
A student named Ella Barwick was the first recipient of a Bursary back in the 1930's. We still have direct descendants of the Barwick family in our School today, represented by Jock in Year 9, who attended the ceremony.

More information on Annie Parr can be found via this link:

https://community.calrossy.nsw.edu.au/miss-annie-parr---headmistress-1930---1940

Can We Learn from Taylor Swift?

Unless you have been living under a rock, you would be aware of the impact of Taylor Swift and her Eras Tour across Australia. Her potential influence on U.S. politics and the Australian economy (60 additional flights from Brisbane to Sydney) is significant, just to name a few examples. As an English teacher, I marvel at her ability to write lyrics and she is a wonderful writer of original thoughts. She is also a significant role model and leader, as much as some are concerned about the impact of influencers in popular culture. Her story is an interesting one as she has had to confront setbacks and show courage, to end up as the global phenomenon she has become. Many would argue that she has remained ‘wholesome’ in an era when the temptation is to be something different.

Not many of our students are likely to become global phenomena but a few positive things might be learned from Taylor:

Creativity and Expression: Her career is a testament to the power of creativity and self-expression. From a young age, she wrote her own songs about experiences, emotions, and observations. Encouraging children to express themselves creatively, whether through music, art, writing, or other forms, can help them develop confidence and find their voice.

Resilience and Courage: She has faced her fair share of challenges and setbacks in the music industry, including criticism, rejection, and personal struggles. However, she has always bounced back stronger. Teaching our children the importance of resilience and perseverance can help them navigate obstacles and setbacks in their own lives.

Empathy and Kindness: Taylor Swift is known for her acts of kindness and generosity towards others in need. Whether it's visiting sick children in hospitals or supporting charitable causes, she demonstrates the importance of empathy and using one's platform for good. Encouraging children to practice empathy and kindness towards others fosters a sense of compassion and community.

Adaptability and Growth: Throughout her career, Taylor has shown a willingness to evolve and adapt to changing circumstances. Whether it's experimenting with different musical styles or reinventing her image, she demonstrates the importance of embracing change and continuous growth. Encouraging children to be open-minded and adaptable prepares them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

I am no ‘Swiftie’, (though my daughters are) however, I marvel at her lyrics and the way she has managed to use her God-given talents to entertain and bring great delight to many in our world.

Leadership Induction

We were delighted to host Bishop Rod Chiswell at our first whole school Assembly of 2024 to induct our new Calrossy student leadership team. Bishop Chiswell spoke from 1 Samuel 17 using King David as an example of effective leadership, when he was challenged by the might of the giant Goliath and needed to depend on God.

We were pleased to have the support of parents and the student body as our School leaders commenced their leadership journey in 2024.

“David said to the Philistine, ‘You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.” 1 Samuel 17:45

David Smith

Principal

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