Leanne Watson, whose 12-year-old daughter Evie attends North Gosforth Academy in Seaton Burn, has launched a petition urging school leaders to revise the uniform policy amid a major heatwave. Temperatures in the North East have peaked between 28°C and 32°C in recent days, prompting concerns over student comfort and safety.
Parent cites health and learning impacts
Watson said Evie, who suffers from bouts of dizziness, has complained of overheating in the classroom, affecting her concentration and overall educational experience. Describing the current uniform as 'thick' and 'heavy', Watson is calling for alternatives such as allowing girls to wear longer skirts without tights and permitting students to remove jumpers if they have the school's logo polo shirt underneath.
She said: 'I am doing this for my daughter and other kids who will be having the same experiences, as Evie felt unable to go to school on Thursday because of how warm she had been feeling in her full uniform. I don't see why the girls couldn't wear a longer skirt with no tights, and they can only take off their jumpers if they have the polo with the school's logo on underneath.'
Petition seeks temperature-based flexibility
Watson's proposal includes implementing alternative uniform options when temperatures reach a certain threshold. She added: 'This can impact the physical and mental wellbeing of the kids, and could bring about hygiene issues, so I hope that the school will be willing to compromise.'
Nationally and regionally, some schools have already adjusted operations during the sustained heat. North Gosforth Academy responded, stating: 'We recognise the impact recent high temperatures can have on children and young people. North Gosforth Academy’s uniform requirements, available on the school’s website, already offer a range of appropriate options and are applied flexibly in warmer weather, including relaxing additional layers.'
School cites flexibility and national guidance
The school spokesperson added: 'In line with national guidance, schools may adapt uniform expectations to ensure children and young people remain safe and comfortable. The school will continue to monitor conditions closely, with wellbeing remaining the priority while maintaining appropriate standards.'
