Wednesday 2nd September 2020
Parent Update – 2 September 2020 – Uniform
Dear Parent / Carer
As you will be aware we suspended uniform at the beginning of session to alleviate any concerns around washing clothes or being able to access uniform through retail outlets.
We have recently reviewed this policy and it is clear from parent and staff feedback that many feel we should move back to uniform after September break. We also note many students are already arriving at school in uniform or partial uniform.
This will mean that as from Tuesday 22 September 2020 we are requesting that all students arrive at school in the correct uniform which is as follows:
White shirt or blouse
Black V neck jumper or cardigan
School tie – All S1 will receive a free tie on Tuesday 22 September
Black trousers or skirt
Black shoes
Outdoor clothing must be removed in all classes. Football scarves and colours are not allowed in school. The present school uniform policy was introduced into Penicuik High School with the full support and agreement of pupils, parents and staff and therefore we do expect it to be followed.
There are some exceptions to this rule:
If a student has PE on a particular day they may wear their PE gear to school and either change later (an opportunity to do this will be given) or remain in their PE gear if they feel it is hygienic to do so.
In order to allow parents to catch up on washing uniforms we will allow students to dress down on the Friday of each week if they wish. This will only be in place until Friday 16 October 2020. We ask that students who dress down are appropriately dressed – this means no crop tops, ripped jeans or revealing clothing. A number of students have flouted these rules over the past few weeks and we will contact parents if we have concerns.
We realise that some parents have come under financial pressure due to the Covid 19 pandemic and we are very keen to help. You may be eligible for a clothing grant. Please follow the link below.
https://www.midlothian.gov.uk/info/855/school_meals/117/free_school_meals_and_clothing_grants
There is now also a parental initiative across all Midlothian schools to support uniform swaps through a Facebook site called Midlothian School Uniform Swap Shop. You just need to ask to join and either offer uniform or request uniform items.
Follow this link:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/297555134907502
If this sudden change in policy is of concern please contact the school to discuss how we can help.
At some stage in the next few months all S4 will receive our new senior tie free of charge. The tie has been slightly modified but is still black with our crest. The crest has been moved to the centre of the tie.
Our plans to offer a uniform blazer are temporarily on hold due to the Covid crisis. It is planned however to put the Senior Prefects into a free blazer this session so staff, students and parents can see what they look like and how they will support a sense of identity. I will write to you when I have more information from the manufacturer. It is planned to offer a subsidy to support the initial phase. Once there are more students in the blazer we will help with ensuring second hand supplies are available. No student should miss out on the opportunity to wear a blazer due to financial constraints.
Kind regards
Craig Biddick
Head Teacher (Acting)
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