‘Part of a high-quality education is learning how to present yourself to the world, and that’s what a school uniform is all about.’ says Former Australian Prime Minister, Julia Gillard.
Should students be required to wear uniforms? The answers may vary. Teachers, administrators, parents and students alike have expressed different views over this controversial issue.
For some people, a uniform is a symbol of unity and wearing one will bring about teamwork and a sense of solidarity in the academe. For others, it impresses the idea that students are not allowed the freedom to express and should conform to the strict rules set by the institution.
With the heated debates over school uniforms showing no signs of cooling off any time soon, it’s the perfect time to discuss its importance in the academe.
So today, learn about the seven reasons why wearing uniforms are beneficial not only for the students, but also for the teachers, parents and administrators.
1. Removes social barriers and bridges gaps
Wearing a single standard of dress code takes away the pressure of what to wear, so students are less likely to focus their attention on how they look. They will not be judged on their appearance, but on their achievements. As a result, they become more focussed on learning. Also, it removes social barriers and eliminates prejudice amongst students. Those who come from lower-income families don’t have to face ridicule and bullying from other students because of the less-expensive clothing options that they wear. This creates a healthier and happier learning environment, which enables students to study well and develop their skills without distractions.
2. Saves up on costs
One of the greatest benefits of a uniform is that it is cost-effective. Buying a new set, which can last for years, is more economical compared to buying a new wardrobe each month. Educational institutions have different ways of sourcing their apparel. Most of them hire school uniform suppliers who provide an affordable range of items like shirts, pants, skirts and blazers for regular days, and jerseys and jackets for sporting activities.
3. Promotes unity and equality among students
Uniforms help build unity, promote discipline and a sense of community within the campus. Like jerseys used in sports, they instil the spirit of teamwork. This can develop positive values because it urges students to study hard or perform well during competitions to bring honour to the academe.
4. Provides safe and positive learning environment
Wearing a proper uniform can reduce violence inside the campus. How? It makes it easy for authorities and administrators to recognise students from outsiders. It prevents non-students from getting inside the campus, thereby avoiding the possibility of them committing disruptive acts. It also minimises the likelihood of gangs from forming inside the school, thus promoting a safe and comfortable atmosphere where students can learn and develop their skills without worrying about their safety.
5. Encourages individual self-expression
With a unified dress code, students find ways to express themselves creatively instead. As a result, they focus their attention on aspects that would help show their personalities, such as participating in various activities like the performing arts, sports, painting, etc.
6. Instils deep rooted sense of discipline
Wearing a proper schoolwear makes students hesitant to do any mischievous activity that can destroy the reputation of or discredit the education institution that they are a part of.
7. Helps overcome inferiority complex
Dressing in a uniform helps students take pride in their appearance, boosting their self-confidence and overcoming their inferiority complex. A student attending an institution that requires a uniform will become more comfortable in expressing themselves through other forms of interaction without focussing so much on outward appearance. It makes a student conscious of his or her individuality, which in turn helps boost self-esteem and confidence.
Bottom Line
Wearing a uniform provides students with a myriad of benefits. It not only promotes a better learning environment, but it also instils positive values in them. This assists in developing their character and helps them become better individuals.
Searching for quality and affordable schoolwear?
Here at EISAU, we provide a list of suppliers that offer affordable, durable and quality schoolwear. These providers not only offer traditional uniforms, but also other related products, such as swimwear, jerseys and branded bags.
Simply use our easy search tool and connect with specialised businesses, from trusted providers of school supplies to reputable companies that offer school management software.
Click here to start you search. For enquiries, you can also send an email at this address contact@eisau.com.au or call us at (04) 9922 1910
