The reasons behind the tradition of Australian school uniforms
In Australia, regardless of whether you attend a private or public school, it is compulsory to wear a school uniform. The tradition of school uniforms in Australia is a legacy of our British roots, and while the degree of uniform enforcement varies between different schools and states, school uniforms are an accepted and customary part of the Australian school experience. The merits and pitfalls of this tradition have been debated in recent times, as Australia continues to assert its independence from the UK. For most, however, it’s a time -honoured tradition that is likely to stay. Here are a few benefits of the school uniform system in Australia:
– Tradition. A uniform is the biggest demarcation of being at school. It signifies a specific time in your life, and is also a physical indicator of the school you attend. The process of getting your school uniform when you enter kindergarten is exciting, and uniform changes throughout the years helps mark progress and growth.
– Saves money and time. Having one uniform and one outfit while at school helps reduce school costs. While uniform costs will differ from school to school, the cost of dressing a child with a uniform is significantly lower than if they were to wear mufti every day. Additionally, school uniforms cut out the hassle and distraction of deciding what to wear.
– Promotes discipline. Wearing a school uniform is a good means of promoting discipline within a school and also teaching tidiness in children.
– School spirit. Australian school uniforms help foster a loyalty and pride in the school a child attends. How much a child enjoys and gets out of their education is heavily dependent on how they feel about their school, and school uniforms can help create a sense of solidarity and closeness with their peers and teachers.
– A leveller. A major argument for kids’ school uniforms in Australia is that they dispel the competition that comes with wanting to sport the most ‘fashionable’ or expensive clothes, and instead levels and equalises all school children. This places more importance on education as opposed to external factors and influences. Australia has a strong sense of mateship and strives to be an egalitarian society, and the school uniform helps promote this.
When it comes to kids’ schoolwear, Australian children wear designated uniforms. In Australian state and public schools this is often the well-known polo shirt and trouser shorts for summer, and pants in winter for boys. For girls it is often similar, although with the added option of a skirt or a dress. For private schools, the uniform can be more formal with hats or ties.
What do you like about the Australian tradition of school uniforms?
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