Today it is hard to imagine even one school where students would be allowed to come to class in ordinary clothes. Any educational institution strives to accustom children to strict discipline, and the school uniform is the best assistant for this.
In some countries, school uniforms are not just clothes, but a whole reflection of the cultural traditions of a particular state. In this regard, in many places it has common features and, of course, very noticeable and interesting differences.
History of Creation
School uniform in England as an official dress code appeared under King Henry VIII. The uniforms of the military were taken as the basis. Initially, it was just a long cloak-coat of an exceptionally dark blue color. This shade was chosen for a reason. Firstly, it was believed that it was the dark blue tone that would teach children humility. Secondly, blue paint at that time was the cheapest and most readily available. Christ's Hospital became the first educational institution in the history of England, where it was decided to introduce a school uniform.
Because in 1870 a decree was issued for free primary education forof all children, the need for school uniforms in England has increased dramatically. And following the hospital of Christ, all educational institutions in the country decided to introduce a strict uniform for their students.
Quite interesting is the fact that the school uniform was created specifically for the poor. After that, private educational institutions began to appear, considering it a special pride. They used special clothes not to equalize all students, but, on the contrary, to show their attitude towards the more privileged sections of society. It was during this period that the form becomes a "chip" of elite schools.
But that's not the end of it. Many students, in an effort to look even better, have taken to buttoning their jackets with a certain number of buttons, wearing school caps at a certain angle, lacing their shoes in as many ways as they can imagine, and carrying bags over their shoulders or simply by the handle.
School uniform in England: description
For that period of time, the form tried to "adjust" to the age characteristics of the students. The costumes of the boys who studied in the primary grades consisted of mostly dark gray shorts and blazers (jackets). Socks have always been worn with shorts. They were also grey. A shirt of the same color was always worn under the jacket. On holidays or some special events, students came in white. For teenagers, regular long trousers were approved. On their feet, the students wore classic black boots. With the onset of cold weather, eachthe student was wearing a pullover with a triangle neckline on his shirt.
School uniform for girls included an ordinary blouse, dress and apron. A little later, around the turn of the 20th century, girls began to wear sundresses.
English school uniforms continued to transform and change until the 1950s. It was during this period that reforms took place in the country, and secondary education became publicly available. Then the idea was born to make one standard of strict clothing for all educational institutions. So there was a division of the form into "summer" and "winter". In fact, it was noticeably larger for girls. Indeed, in the warm period, they wore simple dresses to study, and with the onset of cold weather, they changed into insulated sundresses.
And, of course, the highlight of the English school uniform is the logo. All students proudly wore the insignia of their school. Most often it was embroidered on a tie or jacket. Much less often it was placed on special uniform caps.
Peculiarities of England
England is a very conservative country. And she follows her traditions very closely. And the school uniform has become one of them. Therefore, each educational institution still provides a form to all its students. And not only a suit, but also outerwear, as well as small details of the wardrobe: socks, tie, and so on. What's more, school uniforms in England are available in all sizes and are given to each student free of charge.
Interesting idea
There is a very attractive tradition in one London school named after Elizabeth Garrett. There, any student can personally participate in the process of creating their future form. Of course, everything happens within certain limits, but individual wishes will be taken into account.
Modern school uniform in England
England continues to follow the traditions and adhere to the established rules. Every self-respecting school has a strict dress code. What it will be, the institution decides on its own, but based on established standards. In some cities in England, for example, the appearance of clothing still depends on the age of the students who wear it. The tradition of a seasonal school uniform for girls has also been preserved.
There is a much greater variety of colors in the modern form. Now it is not necessary to go exclusively in dark and blue colors. It became allowed to use brighter shades. For example, red or burgundy. Girls can afford plaid shirts, replacing regular blouses with them. And in addition to caps, school berets appeared.
In closing
School uniform is really necessary in any educational institution. She teaches children to discipline and order. It also helps to eliminate competition among students. After all, it would never occur to anyone to arrange a beauty contest where there are rules requiring the wearing of a special school uniform.
