Parent letter – 9th October 2026

Friday 9 October 2026 

Dear Parents and Carers, 

We are asking for your support in helping us maintain a safe, positive and effective learning environment for all pupils. 

During each pupil’s assessment visit, we explain our expectations regarding uniform and personal belongings. We recognise that, particularly at secondary age, young people may occasionally test boundaries, and we appreciate your assistance in reinforcing the school’s expectations at home. 

Uniform and Footwear 

Our uniform policy states that footwear must be suitable and safe for a school environment. Trainers are ideal and may be of any colour, although we would advise against wearing expensive footwear to school due to the risk of damage or loss. 

For health and safety reasons, footwear must not be open-toed, backless, high-heeled or steel toe-capped. Crocs are not permitted, and we are now extending this to include UGG-style shoes and boots, as these are not suitable for use on the school site. If further clarification is required, we are happy to provide more detailed guidance regarding acceptable footwear. 

As outlined in our uniform policy and discussed during the assessment process, pupils should wear black trousers, leggings or other black bottoms. Blue jeans are not permitted.  Clothing should not display logos or branding other than the Reddish Hall School logo.

Further information can be found in the school policy on the schools website.

Personal Belongings 

Pupils should not bring personal items into school unless this has been agreed in advance. All stationery, equipment and learning resources are provided by the school. 

Where a pupil requires a mobile phone for travel purposes, it must be handed in at the start of the day and stored securely in their locker until home time. We ask that pencil cases, make-up, electronic devices and other personal items remain at home. If a pupil requires a transitional or comfort item, this should be discussed and agreed with school staff beforehand. 

Gaming Devices 

Nintendo Switch consoles were originally permitted for use during Friday Options sessions. Over time, their use has expanded beyond this arrangement. From after half term, gaming consoles will no longer be permitted for use on the school site. Pupils who need to bring them due to transport arrangements may do so, but they must be stored in lockers throughout the school day. 

Please note that the school cannot accept responsibility for the loss of or damage to personal belongings. For this reason, we strongly encourage pupils not to bring valuables or unnecessary items into school. Any personal possessions brought onto site may be required to be stored in lockers during the day. 

As a busy specialist school supporting pupils with complex needs, we rely heavily on the partnership between school and home. Our expectations around uniform and personal belongings are in place to promote health and safety, support safeguarding arrangements, reduce potential conflicts or social pressures between pupils, and help maintain a focused learning environment. Your support with these expectations allows staff to dedicate their time and energy to supporting pupils’ learning, wellbeing and social and emotional development. 

Thank you for your continued support. 

Kind regards, 

Sarah Makin 
Head Teacher

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