This week’s primary school assembly and classroom discussion focuses on recent changes in guidelines around school hair policies and the broader importance of respecting individual identity in educational settings. In the News: New Guidelines for School Hair Policies The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has released new guidance for schools in England, Scotland, and Wales, stating that pupils should not be unfairly singled out for having afro hair. The EHRC highlighted that school rules banning hairstyles such as afros, braids, cornrows, plaits, locks, and head coverings may be breaking the law if they do not take into consideration a person's race or ethnicity. This move aims to ensure school hair policies are fair and inclusive. Why Are These Guidelines Important? The guidelines are designed to help school leaders foster inclusive environments. School policies that ban specific hairstyles without considering cultural and ethnic backgrounds could lead to unlawful discrimination. For example, a survey for World Afro Day found that one in six children with afro-textured hair have had negative experiences at school, often feeling treated unfairly because of their hair. Understanding School Uniform Policies School uniform policies outline what children should wear and how they should present themselves in school. When designing these policies, schools typically consult with parents, teachers, and students to ensure the rules are practical and inclusive for everyone. What Makes a Good Uniform Policy? Schools need to consider various aspects when designing a uniform policy, including: The cost and affordability of the uniform Comfort and suitability for all students Safety—especially when walking or cycling to school Adaptability for different weather conditions PE requirements and what children will wear Rules regarding jewellery, make-up, and hairstyles Hairstyles and Identity Everyone’s hair is different, and many students express their identity through their chosen hairstyle. For some, styling is about creativity, mood, comfort, or cultural expression. The new guidelines emphasize that no child should be sent home for wearing their natural hair, underlining the importance of individuality and self-expression. Personal Stories: How Do Pupils Feel About Their Hair? Kelly enjoys styling her hair with gel and feels confident when wearing it her way. Elijah wishes he could wear his hair longer and loose, rather than tied in plaits. Austin chooses to wear his hair naturally, feeling it expresses his ‘free, wild, and natural’ identity. Other children adapt their hairstyles based on the situation, mood, or need for focus. Why Do We Need Guidelines? Guidelines are intended to advise and ensure that everyone is treated fairly, particularly when it comes to race and ethnicity. Discriminatory policies—those that unfairly treat a person or group differently—can damage an individual’s sense of belonging and self-worth. It's essential that hair and appearance policies reflect inclusivity and respect for all backgrounds. Reflection Questions for the Classroom Do you think having a school uniform policy is a good idea? How do the clothes and hairstyles you wear make you feel? Does your hairstyle help to express your personality or beliefs? Should you have to change your appearance for school or work? Learning Activities and Follow-Up Ideas For Younger Pupils (KS1) Discuss different parts of our body and how everyone looks different. Talk about favourite hairstyles and whether they help make us unique. Sing songs like ‘Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes’ to reinforce body part names. For Older Pupils (KS2) Research how fashion has changed hairstyles over the past 100 years—bring in family photos for comparison. Design a new school uniform. Think about what items you would include and why. Measure and compare handspans in the class to learn about differences we can and cannot change. Vocabulary Focus Discriminatory: Treating someone worse because of ethnicity, sex, age, disability, etc. Guidelines: Advice on how something should be done. Policy: An agreed plan or set of ideas. Race: A group sharing physical characteristics, like skin colour or eye shape. Ethnicity: A group with shared culture, language, or traditions. Ensure: To make sure something happens. Everyone Has Rights No matter our background, we all have the right to fairness, inclusion, and respect both in school and beyond. Rules are important for safety and community, but they should never discriminate or prevent someone from expressing their identity. Explore, Reflect, and Discuss This week’s topic encourages pupils, teachers, and parents to reflect on the importance of respect and inclusion in school policies—especially those about hair and appearance. Policies should celebrate difference and support the individuality of every member of the school community. * Explore the latest Picture News resources here: https://picture-news.co.uk/free-sample * Join our latest discussion here: https://picture-news.co.uk/discuss * Explore our recent events and training here: https://picture-news.co.uk/training
