City of London Academy – Islington New Uniform Design

The academy is introducing 6th form study commencing in September 2010 and are looking to work with students looking to constinue learning at the the institute to develop a formal but comfortable uniform.

The brief for students to start considering a popular uniform to wear going into their A Levels consisted of:

• Create 3 different looks for the dress code

• The uniform must fit with the ethos of the Academy (Business & Enterprise ‘Where students succeed’)

• Avoid Black

• Practical/ classical with a sense of individuality

• Tie for the boys (or/and girls)

• International look (students should fit in, in any location around the world)

• Practical for future employment

• Look good for average 17 year old

• Affordable for the average 17 year old

• Students will be role models for other students in the school

• The girls skirts shouldn’t be too short

With these guildelines in place, the students team effort for creating the uniform brainstormed some excellent ideas to remain stylish and comfortable whilst formal. The common theme in regards to colour was grey; both the boys and girls wish to wear grey cardigans. The girls then suggested 3 different garments for the lower half including skinny jeans or fitted trousers, a pencil skirt and a high waisted skirt all in black. The boys opted for a lighted coloured fitted trouser. Both genders decided lighted shirts would be worn to compliment the grey cardigans and the girls suggested an additional vest top to mix and match the looks.

The unique concept of having the students involved with designing the uniform provides both a creative and entrepreneurial opportunity to ensure students remain motivated through the most important years in secondary education.

The designs will be passed onto the Governor’s next week for feedback and approval, watch this space…