Dear Parent/carer

Uniform expectations from January 2023

I’m writing to inform you that from January 2023, we will be adhering to our Uniform Policy more strictly than has happened in the past.  We are not changing the policy as whole but ensuring that we are raising expectations and standards across the school. Let me explain why.

Eastbrook School has high expectations and standards. We encourage a professional environment, preparing our young people for the world of work and employability. In that vein, it is our ambition to improve our reputation, and, in pursuit of excellence, we are raising expectations of all our students to follow the Uniform Policy more stringently.  Additionally, we are expecting that, from April 2023, all students, except Year 11, must wear black shoes (not trainers), as per the attached policy (see page 4).  https://www.eastbrookschool.org/secondary/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2022/12/Uniform-Policy-Jan-23.pdf This is in line with all other schools in Barking and Dagenham.

To enhance our reputation so that we can take our place among the best schools in the local authority, we require our students to improve their appearance by adhering to the uniform code (see page 4 for clarification).  In doing so, it promotes a pride in our school and marks our identity as member of the Eastbrook School community.

Furthermore, in order to promote both professional conduct and presentation, we do not believe that ‘fashion’ or ‘trends’ should influence the school uniform. Therefore, please be aware that students are no longer permitted to have extreme hairstyles or unnatural coloured hair. School is a place for learning. The wearing of uniform removes the opportunity for peer pressure and bullying because all students are dressed to the same professional standard; a great way to ‘level the playing field’.

Wearing of the school uniform correctly is the responsibility of all members of the school community. Therefore, all form tutors check that uniform is correct at the start of the day, and we will continue to monitor that standards are being maintained. Students can expect to be challenged if they fail to adhere to the school’s Uniform Policy, and sanctions may be given (see page 2).

In order to help us in our endeavours for school improvement, we are asking for your assistance in maintaining a high standard of dress and presentation from your child. If items of uniform are misplaced or need replacing, please inform the school office immediately so that an acceptable timescale can be agreed for replacement.  If there is genuine hardship during these times, please contact the school office or Head of Year, so that we can assist you further.

Students will be informed and reminded about uniform expectations through assemblies and tutor time presentations and reinforced via the student planner.

I sincerely hope that you agree that this is an important milestone on our journey to success.  If you have any comments/issues or feedback, we would be grateful if you complete the following feedback form https://forms.gle/UQ6jGRUBVn7o3fSk6 by Monday 12th December, so that we can hear your views.

Kind regards

Avani Higgins, Headteacher