Dozens of schoolchildren put in isolation in one day at Fareham Academy as school uniform rules reinforced

Dozens of children have been put into isolation at a seondary school today after a reinforcement of the school uniform policy, according to reports.

Parents of students at Fareham Academy in St Anne's Grove, Fareham, have contacted The News to say that roughly 100 pupils were place into isolation today, being placed into the school hall for the entire day. The school insists that number was actually closer to 40.

The students placed into isolation ranged from Years 7 to 11, The News understands. It comes after the school tightened up school uniform regulations, with six weeks until the end of the academic year.

Headteacher Randall Jull said: “It’s not a new policy, and there are no changes being made. All we’ve done today is re-assert the policy that has been in place for a number of years, we’ve not actually asked anything new of our students, or their parents.

“We started with about 40 children, and by the end of the day that number was in the teens, thanks to corrections being made during the school day. For a school of 900 pupils, to have 40 or so in that position means 95 per cent of children were compliant with the school uniform regulations.”

One parent said: “Some Year 11’s, who are currently sitting exams, were also pulled in and told uniform was incorrect and must be changed, with only two weeks left at school some parents were told they need to buy new school shoe for their children.

“My child is a Year 8 student, good attendance, good behaviour in school. She was put into isolation this morning, [because] her flared trousers were leggings and didn’t have pockets and zip.”

Hoodies, leggings, jeans, trainers, make-up, nail varnish and false nails have all been prohibited under the reinforcement.

In a letter sent to parents, sent out before the half-term holiday, Mr Jull said: “We have a very clear uniform policy - one that remains entirely fit for purpose, and a non-negotiable standard.

“On Monday, June 1, these standards will be rigorously applied. If a student chooses to attend in incorrect uniform which can be corrected, a detention will be issued, a correction made, and they may go to class.

“If the uniform cannot be corrected, they will be with a senior member of staff and contact will be made with you to discuss when this can be resolved.

“The children, and some parents, have already been really clear to me that consistency is absolutely crucial and I wholeheartedly agree.”