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. Sandwell Academy clothing requirements are listed on the following pages.
Second hand uniform is available direct from the Academy.
Official Academy clothing is obtainable from:
Gogna School Wear & Sports 67/69 Rookery Road Birmingham B21 9QU Tel: 0121 523 5572
A Oakes Ltd. 174/180 Vicarage Road Nr Oldbury, B68 8JB Tel: 0121 552 1684
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 you do not conform, your parents will be asked to collect you immediately and you will not be allowed to return to the Academy until the issue is resolved
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.
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.
All 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 wear the correct uniform in a way that enhances the reputation and reinforces the ethos of Sandwell Academy. Parents are asked to clearly label all items of clothing with their child's name.
Academy Polo shirt with badge
Academy Shorts or Gym Skirt
Academy Sport Socks
White Sports Socks
Academy Tracksuit with badge
Academy Sweatshirt with badge
Non marking soled shoes – ie suitable trainers for physical activity which provide support and protection to feet.
Towel
Suitable carrying bag
We recommend that for hockey, students should use shin pads and a mouth guard to comply with Health and Safety advice. These are available from most sports shops.
Students involved in physical activities are required to wear Academy PE clothing.
Optional Items for PE sessions and fixtures
Sandwell Academy Hat
Sandwell Academy Gloves
*Please be aware that the PE kit is only available from Gogna School Wear & Sports.
Sandwell Academy Performing Arts T shirt and sweatshirt.
Black Tracksuit Bottoms or Jazz Pants.
Jazz Shoes.
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.