The Importance of Getting the Basics Right 

As we approach half term, it seemed the perfect time to remind everyone about equipment and uniform.  In a school environment, success is often built on small, consistent habits. Among the most important of these are being ready and motivated to learn. Being ‘ready’ plays a significant role in supporting learning and maintaining high standards across our school community. 

Ready and Motivated to Learn: The Value of Proper Equipment 

Learning time is precious. Every lesson is carefully planned to maximise progress, and students are expected to arrive ready to participate fully from the very start in line with The Charters Way and The Student Charters Seven. 

Having the correct equipment is fundamental to effective learning.  When students arrive without the necessary tools, learning is interrupted, and time is lost.  These small disruptions accumulate and can have a measurable impact on progress over time. 

Organisation is a core life skill that extends well beyond school. Developing routines—packing a bag the night before, checking timetables - helps students build habits that will serve them well in further education and employment.  

Please ensure your child is arriving to school fully equipped:

Uniform: More Than Just Appearance 

School uniform represents Unity, belonging, equality, and pride in our community. A consistent and correctly worn uniform ensures that all students feel part of the same Charters team, regardless of background.  Research and experience consistently show that when students dress in a way that reflects high standards, they are more likely to demonstrate Excellence in their behaviour and learning. 

We ask parents and carers to support us by ensuring the following when their child comes to school: 

• Lanyards are worn at all times with the ID card displayed (if they are broken or damaged they must be replaced £5 via ParenPay) 
• Blazers are worn at all times unless permission is given to remove them 
• Only the Charters navy V neck jumper is worn – please do not ask if your child can wear other school branded jumpers or sweatshirts, the answer will be no 
• Shirts and blouses are tucked in at all times 
• Ties are correctly fastened and are the correct length 
• Skirts and trousers are of the appropriate colour, style and length (there must be no rolls in a student’s skirt and trousers should be worn correctly) 
• Footwear is plain black 
• Jewellery – one small stud in each ear and a watch (not a smart watch) can be worn 

The full uniform requirements can be found on our website here.  You will also find at this link details of our pre loved uniform that is available.  These expectations are not about unnecessary strictness. They are about consistency, clarity, and creating an environment where everyone can thrive. 

High Standards, High Expectations (Excellence) 

High expectations are a cornerstone of academic success. By reinforcing simple routines around equipment and uniform, we strengthen the foundations upon which academic excellence is built. 

Working Together (Unity) 

We recognise that establishing routines requires collaboration between school and home. We are grateful to families who consistently support these expectations. A quick daily check before leaving the house can make a significant difference.  If there are genuine difficulties regarding uniform or equipment, we encourage families to contact the school so that support can be provided. Our aim is always to work constructively and ensure every student is ready to succeed.