From September 2025 to September 2026 we will start to implement an active uniform policy as part of our OPAL play initiative.
Formal uniforms are often outdated, irrelevant in a modern context, unfit for purpose and an unnecessary expense. They prevent children from moving freely and are restrictive to movement. They don’t encourage children to cope with dirt, paint, food and whatever else they encounter while exploring the world through active play and learning.
Always active uniforms are made from darker colours and breathable comfortable fabrics. They are not restrictive around the neck and have a loose cut to enable free movement. They are robust, easy to clean and cheap to replace. An always active uniform reduces the barriers to children running, jumping, rolling, climbing, exploring and moving in as many ways as possible as much as possible.
Gender and uniform
Although there is increasing freedom of choice for young girls around uniforms, there is still a gender imbalance around what boys/girls typically wear. This causes inequality of access to activities.
Girls in dresses, skirts, patent pumps and loafer or brogue style shoes, are dressed less safely for climbing, running, playing ball games etc. than boys in trainers and are likely to be more self-conscious.
Dresses and skirts often cause girls to become increasingly self-conscious in their movements, further contributing to lack of movement and activity.
Girls are more likely to get hurt in the kind of shoes that they often wear and, as a result, can be more wary and less active. Schools can promote increased physical activity for girls by having a gender-neutral always active uniform and ensuring all children have robust footwear.
Footwear
Throughout the school day, children will play on grass and in mud, sand, and water; they will do PE, have dance lessons, run around and climb. They need flexible, warm, sturdy shoes with good grips that allow for these activities.
Office-style shoes are inappropriate for the range of activities a primary-aged child should be experiencing in exploring the world. An always active uniform policy should promote suitable footwear, such as trainers and wellies, to support safe-enough play in all conditions.
For more information please visit Home – Active Uniform Alliance
This will be the uniform of Inkersall Spencer Academy for all pupils :
- Black joggers/leggings/shorts
- Royal blue polo shirt or T-shirt
- Blue school sweater or cardigan with logo on (compulsory)
- Blue school fleece jackets (optional)
- Black trainers (no colour on them at all)
- Black socks
- Jewellery does not form part of our school uniform. Small stud earrings (taped over for PE) and a watch are the only items permitted. Certain items may be allowed for religious/cultural reasons.
- Simple hair accessories in blue, black or white
Our school uniform provider is Uniform Direct and Pinders School Wear
School jumpers and cardigans can be purchased from Uniform Direct and Pinders. All other uniform can be purchased from any high street shop. Second hand uniform is available through the Staveley Edge Second hand shop.
It is vital that all items of clothing and belongings are CLEARLY labelled with your child’s name.
‘Lost Property’ is located in labelled boxes in school.
Please click the link below to read our uniform policy.