Uniform

Uniform Policy

The Independent Grammar School Durham

The school uniform is designed to:

- promote pride in the school;

- create a smart and consistent appearance;

- encourage equality and inclusivity; and

- be practical, comfortable and appropriate for learning.

All pupils are expected to wear the correct uniform and PE kit, subject to agreed adjustments. All items must be clearly named. Branded uniform is available at theschooloutfit.co.uk . Items not specified as school branded may be purchased from any retailer provided they meet the requirements below. The school will consider affordability and value for money when reviewing its uniform requirements. Parents concerned about cost or availability should contact the school before purchasing replacement items.

The main school uniform consists of:

- a dark green school blazer with embroidered school crest;

- a plain white collared shirt, tucked in neatly;

- a green and white striped school tie, worn correctly with the top button fastened; and

- a branded school jumper, which may be worn underneath the blazer.

Boys wear:

- full-length grey trousers that fit appropriately; grey school shorts may be worn in warmer months;

- plain grey socks; and

- plain black school shoes. Trainers, boots, canvas shoes and branded sports footwear are not permitted as normal school footwear.

Girls may choose from:

- a grey pleated skirt of a sensible school style, around knee length;

- a grey pinafore dress, for Early Years and Lower School only; or

- grey tailored trousers.

Girls wear plain grey socks or plain grey tights of at least 80 denier. Upper School girls may also wear plain black tights of at least 80 denier. Shoes must be plain black, polishable school shoes; high heels, platform soles and trainers are not permitted as normal school footwear.

Early Years pupils in Pre-Reception and Reception may follow the same uniform style or wear their PE kit. They must bring clearly named waterproofs and wellies to keep in school for wet-weather play.

Hair must be neat and appropriate for school, with long hair tied back. Extreme hairstyles or unnatural colours are not permitted. These rules will be applied sensitively and must not discriminate against natural hair texture or hairstyles associated with race, ethnicity, religion or belief. Staff will discuss any concerns with parents rather than make assumptions about whether a hairstyle is inappropriate.

One small pair of stud earrings and a watch may be worn. Necklaces, bracelets and fashion jewellery are not permitted, subject to agreed religious, medical or disability-related arrangements. Jewellery must be removed or managed safely for PE and other activities in accordance with the activity’s safety requirements and any agreed individual arrangements.

Early Years and Lower School pupils must not wear makeup. Upper School pupils should maintain a natural appearance. False nails, nail varnish and eyelash extensions are not permitted.

Coats should be plain black and suitable for the weather. School coats are available from the uniform supplier but are not compulsory. Hoodies must not be worn instead of blazers except when pupils are wearing PE kit for PE or a sports club. Scarves, hats and gloves should be plain black and clearly named. Necessary visibility and safety equipment for journeys to and from school may be worn.

School bags must be plain black or school branded. Younger pupils may use school book bags.

During warmer months, optional summer uniform consists of:

- grey school shorts for boys;

- a green and white gingham dress for Early Years and Lower School; 

- short-sleeved white shirts.

The Principal may temporarily relax requirements, such as wearing blazers or ties, during unusually hot weather or make other necessary arrangements for adverse weather and pupil safety. Parents and pupils will be told of these arrangements.

Pupils may come to school in PE kit on days when they have PE or attend a sports club. PE kit consists of:

- a school branded green polo top;

- a school hoodie or school black quarter-zip top;

- school jogging bottoms or black shorts;

- black plimsolls for younger children or plain black trainers; and

- a house-coloured T-shirt for Sports Day only.

The school will make reasonable adjustments for disabled pupils and consider individual needs arising from SEND, sensory difficulties or medical conditions. Adjustments may include alternative fabrics, fastenings, footwear or clothing, or flexibility over particular items. Parents should discuss needs with the Principal or SENCO; the pupil’s views will be considered appropriately. An agreed adjustment is not a uniform breach and must be communicated to relevant staff so that the pupil is treated consistently.

Requests relating to religion or belief, cultural needs or other protected characteristics will be considered individually under the Equality Act 2010 and the school’s Equality and SEND policies. The Principal will discuss suitable arrangements with the family, taking account of safety and the purpose of the uniform rules, and record the decision and reasons. Any restriction must be lawful and proportionate; a blanket rule must not prevent consideration of an individual request.

Parents will be contacted where uniform expectations are repeatedly not met. Before taking action, staff will consider the reason, including financial hardship, supply difficulties, disability, sensory or medical needs and any agreed adjustment. The school may provide temporary uniform items where necessary and will work with the family to resolve difficulties. Pupils must not be humiliated or penalised for an agreed adjustment. Any disciplinary response will be fair and proportionate under the Behaviour Policy, taking account of circumstances outside the pupil’s control. Concerns about application of this policy may be raised under the Complaints Policy.

The Principal oversees implementation. The Board reviews the policy annually, including its affordability, practical operation and equality implications, and sooner if circumstances or requirements change.

Reviewed October 2026

Next review October 2027 or earlier if required