From the Principal

News has travelled quickly over the last week or so that there are a collection of prototype academic uniforms residing in my foyer.  As we prepare to welcome boys to Year 7 from 2023 it is timely to review our academic uniform.  It is important to note that one of the most frequently asked questions since the ‘best of both worlds’ announcement last September has been about the uniform.  These questions have been raised through the parent forums, at P&F meetings and during the regular College enrolment tours. Something which we have been committed to from the outset is the importance of reviewing both the boy and girl academic uniforms rather than simply bolting on an addition for boys entering Year 7.  

This commitment to an inclusive review was assisted by the 2021 College Captains, who held several student forums at the end of last year where they discussed a range of topics, including the uniform.  The overarching comments from these forums were about reviewing the uniform for increased comfort, the inclusion of a pant and skirt option, and ensuring that our formal uniform could be worn all year around.  Over the last couple of months, the College has used this information to develop a series of uniform prototypes.  An integral part of this development has been liaising with members of the Old Collegians' Association to ensure that as we look forward that our rich heritage and traditions are considered in the modern reimagining of our uniform.  I thank and acknowledge the members of the Old Collegians' Association for their time, suggestions and support with this process.    

Whilst this is very much a work in progress, the proposed uniforms have started to take shape.  The key principles guiding the new uniform design have been that it is smart and flattering, climate-appropriate and comfortable enough to be conducive to an active school day.  We are pleased to have the opportunity to incorporate a choice according to individual preference of pants, shorts and skirts for girls.  This is in keeping with current anti-discrimination policies and in recognition that it is important for our uniform to reflect current best practice in both design and style.  Although the physical uniform is one important consideration, I appreciate that cost and timeframe are a central question for parents.  The prototypes have been designed in a way to minimise the number of uniforms but maximise the options for students.  There will also be a transition period between the old and new uniform of 2 to 3 years where either may be worn, with the prototype designs considering carefully how these uniforms will look together on campus during the transition period.      

It has been wonderful to welcome a steady stream of students through my office to look at the prototype uniforms.  I have enjoyed the opportunity to discuss with the students their thoughts, suggestions, likes and dislikes.  More importantly, however I have enjoyed the opportunity to witness the passion and pride these students all have for their College and their insightful commentary about the things about the uniform which are important to them.  I look forward over the coming months to continuing to share progress, take feedback and discuss this change with a wider audience as we construct the way forward together.