Academy Uniform

Our Academy uniform reflects the school's long-standing tradition for academic excellence and high standards of which we are so proud. Our uniform plays a vital role in contributing to the ethos of the school and setting the appropriate tone. We believe that by encouraging our students to dress smartly for school, we are building on the standards, discipline and professionalism that the young people we work with, will require in the world of work.

By wearing the school uniform, students at Waltham Toll Bar Academy demonstrate visually that they belong to the school community. Their uniform is a symbol of equality, identity and affiliation to the school. Smartness and high standards of appearance are expected at all times, both inside and outside of the academy premises.

For for the 2024 – 25 Academic year, we are delighted to present all members of our Academy community with a new, simplified Uniform Policy.

Our key areas of focus are as follows:

• All Academy students must wear the new, single Academy Tie when we return in September 2024. We have allowed students to wear the old ties over the last Academic year as we transition to the new tie. However, the new tie must be worn upon your child’s return to the Academy.
• Subtle Make-Up is permitted for all year groups but False Eyelashes, Nose Studs and Jewellery may not be worn.
• Stretchy (non-tailored) trousers are not part of the uniform policy. We politely ask that all pupils in Years 7-11 are in tailored trousers, following the return to the Academy after the Summer Holiday 2024.
• Appropriate Footwear must be worn, students should not be wearing Trainers or any other type of footwear.

We will always support students with Uniform issues and give them an opportunity to comply with the policy. Our Uniform policy is utilised in conjunction with our Behaviour policy, a link to which can be found here.

If you wish to discuss any matters relating to Academy Uniform standards, please do not hesitate your child’s Year team on 01472 500505 or enquiries@tollbaracademy.co.uk.

Limiting the cost of Academy uniform

Our Academy Uniform Policy can be found here: Uniform policy

In developing our uniform policy, we have taken into account factors such as:

• The socio-economic status of our Academy community
• Pupil demographics
• The uniform of neighbouring schools and academies in our Trust
• The views of our Academy community

Our Academy has a duty to make sure that the uniform we require is affordable, in line with statutory guidance from the Department for Education on the cost of school uniform.

We understand that items with distinctive characteristics (such as our branded items, or items that have to have an Academy logo or a unique fabric/colour/design) cannot be purchased from a wide range of retailers and that requiring many such items limits parents’ ability to ‘shop around’ for a low price.

We make sure our uniform:

• Is available at a reasonable cost
• Provides the best value for money for parents/carers.

Uniform Details, Items in bold text marked with * are only available from our approved uniform suppliers Uniform Direct. 56 Victoria Street, Grimsby. DN31 1BL Tel: 01472 347800. www.uniform-direct.com.

Required Uniform Items (Students must wear):

• Black blazer with Academy badge*
• Academy tie*
• Academy Skirt or Black trousers (tailored)
• White shirt or Blouse
• Plain black polishable shoes
• Backpack

Optional/Seasonal Uniform Items (Students can choose to wear):

• Plain black jumper or Sweatshirt with no logos (optional to be worn under blaze)
• Branded Academy skirt*

PE Kit

• Navy/sky blue reversible capped rugby shirt. *
• Navy/sky blue polo shirt with Academy logo. *
• Navy/sky blue football shorts/skort with Academy logo. *
• Navy/sky blue sports socks with Academy logo. *
• Football boots (required for participation in football and rugby).
• Training shoes.
• Shin pads.

The following PE Items are optional to all students:

• Navy tracksuit bottoms.
• Swimming costume and towel for showers.
• Black/Navy top base layer to be worn underneath the kit.
• Black/Navy legging base layer to be worn underneath the kit.

Specific Uniform Policies

• Subtle make-up can be worn across all year groups. However, Eyeliner, Nose Studs, False eyelashes, tattoo eyebrows, colored nail varnish and acrylic/false nails are not permitted.
• No Jewellery may be worn, aside from a wristwatch.
• Footwear: Black Polishable Shoes, without logos. No other types of footwear are permitted. ‘Ankle socks’ are also not permitted.
• Hair: accessories are permitted as long as they are not excessive. No ‘vivid’ or ‘two-tone hairstyles are permitted
• Headwear: Hats must not be worn within Academy buildings.
• Earrings: Students may wear one small pair of Earrings, no Hoops or Bars.
• ‘Hoodies’- Sweatshirt-style ‘Hoody’ Jackets must not be worn. A coat or appropriate Coat or Rain Jacket must be worn.

We also strongly encourage families of all students that cycle to the Academy to ensure that they are wearing a Bicycle Helmet.

Uniform assistance

The Academy supports vulnerable families in meeting the costs of uniforms. To claim Academy uniform assistance, parents should normally be eligible for FSM. Families should contact their child’s teacher, to discuss this. 01472 500 505 or by email enquiries@tollbaracademy.co.uk to discuss our criteria for support.