Uniform

We have a school uniform at Stowmarket High School, which we require all students to wear at all times. The uniform is practical and comfortable and gives the students a sense of belonging to the school.  We ask that parents/carers support us by ensuring their child attends school each day in the correct attire and with the necessary equipment to learn. 

Periodically, schools review their uniform to check its suitability and to ensure it meets the statutory guidance on the cost of school uniforms.

Pupils are expected to wear the correct uniform at all times (other than specified non-school uniform days) while:

On the school premises
Travelling to and from school
At out-of-school events or on trips that are organised by the school, or where they are representing the school (if required)

Parents and carers are expected to make sure their child has the correct uniform and PE kit, and that every item is:
Clean
Clearly labelled with the child’s name
In good condition

School Uniform – Compulsory Items

A branded black blazer - with school’s logo on breast pocket (which should be worn in the building at all times unless given permission to do otherwise)
A clip-on school tie, with each year group allocated a specific colour on entry to the school. The allocated tie colour remains with that cohort for the duration of their time at Stowmarket High School.

For the 2025 to 2026 academic year, the cohort colours are as follows: (these alternate every year)

Year 7 Green
Year 8 Purple
Year 9 Blue
Year 10 Red
Year 11 Striped
White, un-logoed and plain collared shirt or blouse with either long or short sleeves
Black or white socks (plain)
Plain black trainers or black sensible shoes
Black trousers - which should give the appearance of a straight legged fit and be of full length
Black shorts may be worn in the summer term only but these should be tailored/cotton (May half term to July)

The following are NOT allowed

High-heeled or stiletto-style school shoes

Caps or hats - except for weather protection. Head Coverings for religious reasons may be worn.
Leggings except in PE
Jeans
Footwear which is not completely black in colour (school shoes)

Skirts
Hoodies (except for PE lessons)
Non-school jumpers
Boots or canvas school shoes
Patterned/fluffy or slumber socks

Other Guidance

Students may wear traditional coats outdoors only. Coats must not be worn inside the building
Underclothing may be worn but not seen and of a neutral colour e.g. baselayers, t shirts, best tops
Temporary adjustments during extreme weather will be communicated by the school
Should any other adjustments be deemed suitable in the event of extreme weather, these will be communicated at the time
Any persistent uniform infringements will likely result in sanctions

PE Kit

Compulsory Items:

A unisex black branded polo - with yellow panelling and with school logo 
Black football socks
Black football/sports shorts 
Sports Trainers (not fashion trainers)
Football Boots and shin pads for football or rugby

Optional Items:

Plain black tracksuit bottoms 
Reversible black rugby shirt with yellow panelling 
Black sports hoody with school logo 
Black skorts with yellow panelling with school logo 
Plain black sports leggings

Our Suppliers

Anglia Sports and Schoolwear Ltd

Tel: 01255 474550
http://www.yourschoolwear.co.uk/stowmarket-high-school-96-c.asp

customersupport@angliasportsandschoolwear.co.uk

Jewellery

Jewellery is limited to the following:

One pair of stud earrings (hoops, long earrings and stretchers are not permitted)

One ring
One bracelet
One necklace (which must be worn beneath clothing)
One nose piercing

Parents should consider healing time, age suitability, the risk of infection and our school rules before allowing their child to have a piercing. No other facial jewellery is permitted, including eyebrow, lip or tongue piercings. including clear piercings.

Jewellery must be removed for physical education and any other curriculum activity where directed by staff to ensure safe participation. Where removal is not possible department procedures should be followed for example removal from practical activity. Failure to follow these expectations will result in sanctions in line with the school’s Behaviour Policy.

Mobile Phones

The Department for Education states that mobile phones can cause distraction and disrupt learning. In line with this guidance, phones must not be used anywhere on the school site unless a member of staff gives clear permission. Our expectation is on site, out of sight.

Mobile phones are not part of our required school equipment, in the same way that they are not part of our school uniform. Students bring them at their own risk. If a phone is seen or used, it will be confiscated until the end of the school day. Repeated breaches will require collection by a parent or carer and further sanctions in line with the Behaviour Policy. Refusal to hand over a phone or electronic device will be treated as a serious behaviour matter. Earbuds and headphones are not permitted and will be confiscated in the same way. The school accepts no liability for loss, theft or damage to personal devices. Full details of our mobile phone expectations can be found within the Behaviour Policy on our website.

Appearance

Students are expected to maintain a presentable appearance at all times. Extremes of dress or appearance are not permitted, as they can distract from learning and undermine the school’s high standards. Hair should be of a moderate cut, with no extreme styles or patterns. This includes shaved lines or intricate designs in hair or eyebrows. Only natural hair colours are acceptable. Hair extensions, false braids, or large decorative accessories may not be worn. The Headteacher’s interpretation of these descriptions is final.

The school recognises and respects cultural and religious expressions of identity. Neat, natural braids and hairstyles worn for cultural or religious reasons are acceptable, provided they do not compromise health, safety, or learning.