To facilitate effective teaching and learning at Sandwell Academy there is a strict code of conduct with respect to uniform and office dress for both staff and students. Establishing and maintaining high expectations of appearance for staff and students is essential to supporting the ethos of a professional, business orientated, educational environment.
In our diverse community, some of our students follow religious guidance on aspects of appropriate clothing. Sandwell Academy is sensitive to the requirements of specific items of dress code required by religious beliefs.
We ask for your support and co-operation to help keep the standards of students’ uniform as high as possible.
For details of the Academy's policy, please see the Uniform Policy. The following information is a brief outline of the guidance. This is not comprehensive. The Academy's decision on Uniform is final.
Second hand uniform is available direct from the Academy.
Name badge (provided by the Academy)
Academy tie
White shirt
Academy grey trousers
Academy blazer with Academy logo on breast pocket
Academy sweater (optional)
Black socks
Black plain shoes of a sensible design. Pumps, training shoes, boots, or ankle boots, shoes with deep tread soles or with a logo or reflective design are not allowed (e.g. Kickers). If a student has the incorrect footwear on they will be sent home to get the correct shoes. If this is not possible students will need to wear the Academy pumps.
Suitable carrying bag (Large enough to carry two A4 folders)
White blouse
Academy kilt – below the knee OR Academy grey trousers
Academy sweater/cardigan (optional) – to be worn in addition to blazer and not in place of
Black knee-length socks or black tights
Black plain shoes of a sensible design with heels no higher than 2 inches, not stiletto or kitten style. Pumps, training shoes, boots, or ankle boots, shoes with deep tread soles or with a logo or reflective design are not allowed (e.g. Kickers). If a student has the incorrect footwear on they will be sent home to get the correct shoes. If this is not possible students will need to wear the Academy pumps.
Jewellery
Nose studs, ear stretchers, body and tongue piercing and related jewellery are not allowed. However, Sixth Form students may wear jewellery that conforms to Health and Safety regulations, however multiple piercings are not allowed.
Hairstyle
Brightly coloured hair dyes and totally shaved or decorated scalps including shaved lines, are unacceptable for the Academy.
Students are not permitted to wear denim jackets, baseball hats, cropped tops or hooded sweatshirts. Parents are asked to clearly label all items of clothing with the student’s name.
All Sixth Form students are encouraged to take a pride in their personal appearance. The Senior Management reserve the right to take appropriate action to ensure all students dress
appropriately to enhance the reputation and reinforce the ethos of Sandwell Academy.
Or
Nose studs, body and tongue piercing and related jewellery are not allowed. However, Sixth Form students may wear jewellery that conforms to Health and Safety regulations, however large hoop earrings and multiple piercings are not allowed.
Brightly coloured hair dyes and totally shaved or decorated scalps are unacceptable for the Academy. Hair accessories must be sensible.
Students in Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 should wear the prescribed uniform at all times. Sixth Form students do not wear the prescribed uniform but should wear clothing appropriate for the business world or office environment. (Specific details are outlined later in this policy). If students do not conform, parents will be asked to collect them immediately and will not be allowed to return to the Academy until the issue is resolved. in the case of Sixth Form, they will be asked to return home to amend their attire as required and return to the Academy straight away. Please be aware that due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Academy is unable to loan items of uniform.
Members of the general public make judgements about Sandwell Academy based upon standards of academic achievement, behaviour and uniform. All students are expected to wear full uniform when being transported to and from the Academy. Students are expected to take pride in their appearance and this should be replicated in the way uniform is worn. It is essential that all students take their ambassadorial role for the Academy seriously at all times.
Earrings, rings, nose studs, body and tongue piercing and related jewellery are not allowed. One plain metal stud (gold or silver) can be used for pierced ears and a watch may be worn. Ear stretchers are not allowed.
No extreme hairstyle or colouring (including totally, partially shaved, or decorated scalps, brightly coloured hair dyes). Sensible hair accessories in black or navy blue.
Nail varnish and any form of false nail are not permitted.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7 & 8) – Not to be worn
Key Stage 4 (Years 9,10 & 11) – Mascara only
Key Stage 5 (6.1 and 6.2) – Appropriate make up for the office.
No variation of the kilt or trouser style is acceptable. Parents should ensure that they purchase kilts or trousers from one of the Academy's uniform suppliers.
Students are not permitted to wear denim jackets, baseball hats or hooded sweatshirts.
A Hijab may be worn but only in a black or navy blue colour.
Eligible parents and Sixth Form students will be given financial support to help with their purchases of uniform or office dress. The Student Support and Welfare Officer, who is contactable via the Academy Reception, is able to provide further details concerning eligibility and the nature of support available.