Out of the Box

School uniform and dress code update

by Ms Shareen Bottrell, Assistant Principal

School Uniform Policy

At Box Hill High School, we believe the uniform plays an important role in supporting students to take pride in their appearance, develop a strong sense of belonging, and be easily recognised as members of our school community. We are proud of the way our students present themselves, both at school and while travelling to and from school, and see the uniform as a key part of our positive image within the broader community.

 

Our school has a compulsory uniform policy. Students are expected to wear the full academic uniform every day unless there is an approved ‘free dress’ event, or they are scheduled for a Physical Education (PE) or sports practical class on that day.

Changes to the Student Dress Code Policy

On 2 April 2025, the Minister for Education announced changes to the Student Dress Code Policy for all Victorian state schools. These changes aim to improve the affordability of school uniforms and will come into effect from 2026.

 

From the beginning of the 2026 school year, our school tracksuit pants and sports shorts will no longer have a brand on them. Students will be permitted to wear non-branded (including any other brands) sports shorts and tracksuit pants. This means families will have the option to purchase these items either from our official uniform supplier, Bob Stewart, or from other retailers offering generic alternatives that meet the approved style and colour guidelines. Note that the colour must match our school uniform colour (correct navy blue).

What’s happening in 2025

Throughout this year, the School Council and Uniform Committee will be focusing on the following:

  1. Policy Alignment: The School Council will approve an updated Box Hill High School Dress Code Policy later this year to ensure it aligns with the Department of Education’s revised guidelines.

     

  2. Possible Changes to the Current BHHS Uniform: Based on feedback received in 2024 from parents, students, and staff, we are considering updates to certain uniform items, specifically the spray jacket and sports top. Should any changes be approved, a transition period will be provided to support families. Final recommendations will be shared with the school community once they have been reviewed and endorsed by the Uniform Committee and School Council.