King's Leadership Academy Liverpool has defended its updated uniform policy, which bans girls who wear skirts from wearing socks, insisting they must wear black tights or tailored trousers instead. The school, based in Dingle, south Liverpool, says the changes aim to create a "more consistent" appearance across the school.
Some parents have expressed unhappiness with the new rules, particularly the sock ban. One parent commented on social media: "Anyone's kids attend King's Leadership Academy Liverpool? We've had an email to say the girls can no longer wear socks and have to wear tights all year round. I'm sorry but why is it even a rule?" Another parent added: "It's a joke. Sorry my kid won't be wearing tights either."
Principal Scott Cordon said: "We’re updating our uniform policy to create a professional, more consistent appearance across the school." The school's Student Parliament representatives issued a statement explaining that the changes were designed to make expectations clearer and more consistent. They said: "For students who choose to wear a skirt, the expectation is now that plain black tights are worn. Students also have the option of wearing tailored school trousers."
The policy also requires all girls to have their hair tied back at all times. The student statement said: "The expectation for hair to be tied back during the school day is about professionalism and practicality. We know that tied-back hair helps maintain a neat appearance and is important in practical lessons where health and safety must come first."
One student representative added: "School uniforms should be professional at all times and tights appear to be more presentable. Hair should be tied back not only for professional reasons but also for health and safety reasons." The statement concluded: "As students, we want the focus of the school day to be on learning, leadership and achievement."
King's Leadership Academy is part of the Great Schools Trust and was named one of the most improved schools in the country last year.
