A Sydney high school has ignited controversy by implementing a new dress code that critics argue unfairly targets female students while leaving boys unaffected.
Backlash Against New School Rules
Mosman High School on Sydney's lower north shore introduced the contentious uniform policy last month, prompting immediate criticism from both students and parents. The school stands out as one of the few state schools in New South Wales without a designated uniform, a distinctive feature established in the 1980s to differentiate itself from nearby private institutions.
Female students now face potential detention or suspension for wearing banned items including bike shorts, leggings, and low-cut tops. Several girls have reported being reprimanded by teachers for wearing tight tops, despite these garments not appearing on the official banned list.
Students Report Body Shaming Concerns
One student voiced her frustration to the Daily Telegraph, stating: "It seems to me that it's less about the dress code and what you're wearing, and more about your body." She highlighted the inconsistent enforcement, noting that students with larger chests face more scrutiny for wearing the same clothing as their peers.
Parents have joined the chorus of disapproval, with one pointing out that the new restrictions fail to account for body diversity among young girls. The policy has drawn attention to how school dress codes can disproportionately affect students based on their physical development.
School Leadership Defends Policy
Principal Susan Wyatt addressed the growing concerns in a recent newsletter to parents. "Firstly, let me say that non-uniform is such a valuable approach to ensuring equity and support for student wellbeing," she wrote. Wyatt defended the dress code as "reasonable" and described it as striking a balance between comfort and maintaining a learning-focused environment.
The principal emphasised Mosman High's unique character, stating: "Mosman High is a special school, and our non-uniform is part of what makes us special." When approached by media, both the school and the NSW Department of Education redirected inquiries to each other.
National Debate Erupts
The controversy quickly spread beyond the school gates, sparking widespread discussion on breakfast television and radio programmes across Australia. Sunrise co-host Nat Barr captured the sentiment of many critics, noting: "There's no rule for the boys, who can wear whatever they like. This will blow up."
NSW shadow education spokesperson Sarah Mitchell urged the school to resolve the matter after speaking with an affected student. "The message I got from speaking to her is that they think there's a double standard," Mitchell told 2GB host Ben Fordham. She recommended that school leaders, parents and students collaborate to find a sensible solution.
The debate has divided Australian communities online. While some commentators supported the activewear ban, arguing that schools should maintain standards, others questioned the fairness of targeting specific clothing items predominantly worn by girls. The situation continues to develop as the school community seeks resolution.
