Introducing a school uniform from September 2026

From September 2026, we will be introducing a school uniform for the first time. We know this is a change for our families, and we want to explain how we have approached it and why, so you have all the information you need before September.

Designed with our pupils in mind

Newman is a special school for pupils with severe learning difficulties, profound and multiple learning difficulties, and social, emotional and mental health needs. We have not taken a mainstream uniform and adapted it afterwards. Instead, we have built our uniform from the outset around comfort, sensory needs, medical needs and independence, so that it supports our pupils rather than creating a barrier for them.

We recognise that some of our pupils will need individual adjustments beyond what is set out in this letter. If that is the case for your child, please get in touch with your child's class teacher or the school office so we can discuss what will work best for them.

Our school colours

Our uniform colours are navy and light blue. We have chosen colours and styles that are widely available from supermarkets and general clothing retailers, and it is not compulsory for uniform to carry the school logo. This keeps choice and cost manageable for families, in line with the Department for Education's statutory guidance on the cost of school uniforms.

Our uniform

Item	What we ask for
Polo shirt, shirt or blouse	White or light blue polo shirt, with or without the school logo. Adaptations-For pupils with sensory needs: a plain white, grey or light blue round-neck t-shirt.
Sweatshirt or cardigan	Plain navy  or grey sweatshirt or cardigan, with or without the school logo.
Trousers or joggers	Navy, grey or black trousers, or jogging bottoms, without sports brand logos or branding. Adaptations-Soft, elasticated waistbands are welcome where this supports independence or comfort.
Leggings for medical needs	Where a pupil needs to wear leggings for medical reasons, for example to support continence or physical health needs, these should be a neutral colour (navy, grey or black) with no patterns, so they sit comfortably alongside the rest of the uniform.
Skirt or pinafore dress (optional)	Navy skirt, or navy checked pinafore dress, for pupils and families who prefer this option.
Footwear	Comfortable trainers or school shoes. No heeled shoes, boots or sandals. Easy-fasten or Velcro styles are encouraged where they support a pupil's independence.

 

Jewellery and watches

For safety reasons, we ask that pupils wear plain stud earrings only, and a simple watch if they wish. Smartwatches and other internet-connected devices that can take photographs, browse the internet or send and receive messages are not permitted. This is primarily to support our online safety and safeguarding expectations, and it also reflects examination access arrangements for our older pupils sitting formal assessments.

Jewellery is worn at the pupil's own risk and remains the responsibility of the pupil and their family. Please do not send your child to school wearing sentimental or valuable items, as we cannot guarantee against loss or damage, particularly where items may need to be removed for messy play, physical activity or personal care.

Who this applies to

This uniform applies to all year groups up to and including Year 11. Our post-16 pupils are expected to dress in smart casual attire rather than school uniform, reflecting the greater independence of this stage and helping to prepare them for further education, training or employment as part of our PfA curriculum.

No separate PE kit

Because of the way our curriculum is structured, pupils do not need a separate PE kit. Many of our pupils take part in outdoor learning and Forest School sessions, which can be messy. We would be grateful if you could provide a labelled change of clothing to keep at school for these sessions, along with wellies if you are able to.

Cost and affordability

We are also introducing a uniform rail at school. Parents and carers are welcome to donate uniform their child has grown out of or no longer needs, as long as it is in good condition, and to take any items they need from the rail at any time, free of charge and without needing to ask.

Labelling

Please label all uniform and spare clothing with your child's name, so that anything mislaid can be returned to them quickly.