School rated ‘needs improving’ by Ofsted replaces traditional school uniform to ‘remove barriers to learning’
A Derbyshire secondary school has replaced their traditional school uniform with a more relaxed attire in an attempt to “remove barriers to learning”.
Alvaston Moor Academy is abandoning the blazer, shirt and tie combination for incoming Year 7 pupils from September 2026.
The school, which operates under the Archway Learning Trust, will instead introduce polo shirts paired with all-weather jackets bearing the school’s logo.
It marks a significant departure from conventional school attire, with the academy opting for what it describes as a more streamlined approach to uniform.
Alvaston Moor Academy has cited several factors driving the overhaul, with cost savings for families featuring prominently among the justifications.
School leaders believe the new attire will prove more practical and versatile, with the jacket suitable for wear both on school premises and in everyday life.
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The updated uniform better accommodates pupils with sensory needs, addressing concerns that traditional formal wear can prove uncomfortable for some children.
Principal Gemma Tyers emphasised the school’s commitment to pupil welfare, stating: “We’re consistently looking for ways to better our school environment for all our students and foster a place where children are comfortable, engaged and ready to learn.
“We pride ourselves on creating a community that extends further than the classroom, so consulting students and their parents on how we can support them is a key part of our school ethos and approach.
“We’ve listened to what they had to say and taken action – all while continuing to support inclusion and retaining our school identity.
Alvaston Moor Academy is to replace the conventional blazer uniform with a more relaxed outfit
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“Our new uniform is more accessible, more affordable, inclusive, and multi-purpose, and most importantly reflects what our students want and need from their school experience.
“We anticipate these changes will boost attendance, engagement and achievement for students across the board.”
James Higham, chief executive of Archway Learning Trust, underscored the organisation’s collaborative ethos in implementing the policy.
“We are a values-led trust, and collaboration is at the heart of all we do, and proactively engaging with our parent and student body to make positive changes embodies our values and has a real impact on outcomes for our children,” he said.
“Alvaston Moor Academy’s new uniform places learning and community at the heart of its approach. It removes barriers to learning and helps create a safe space for students to truly thrive.”
While the polo shirt and jacket will be mandatory for Year 7 entrants, pupils moving into Year 8 and above may adopt the new attire voluntarily.
The change comes despite Alvaston Moor Academy’s disappointing Ofsted report.
In 2023, the academy was found to “require improvement” in the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and leadership and management.
