School changes uniform after academy switch

Sep 19 2011 By Camilla Goodman

Chiltern Hills Academy (formerly Chesham Community College)

BRIGHT green ties can be seen all around Chesham after a school changed its uniform.

The Chiltern Hills Academy, formally Chesham Park Community College, in Chartridge Lane, Chesham, decided to have a uniform make-over to go alongside its new status.

Principal Kevin Patrick said: "The youngsters are all proudly walking around in their new uniform and taking on board the ethos we have developed and the core values of honesty, respect, compassion, love, forgiveness, self-discipline and hope.

"I'm pleased with the uniform, it's distinctive. It's given us a chance to be fresh and clean and it's gone down well with the students."

About 600 pupils at the school swapped the previous burgundy uniform for black blazers and a black and bright green striped tie. Pupils agreed the final design of the uniform.

Lili Nikolic, 11, said: "I think it's very formal with the blazer, shirt and tie. I think the tie is very creative with it being bright."

Chelsea Fenner, 11, said: "It's quite nice, I like the ties because of the colour. It's a bit formal but it's nice."

Lauren Ashby, 11, said: "It's very bright. I did not like it at first but it's stuck to me know."

However not everyone is a fan of the new uniform. Town councillor Jane Bramwell said: "I think the new black blazers are very smart but I'd be interested to know who chose the tie – were the students involved? I have to say that if I were their age I would be reluctant to wear it."

What do you think of the new uniform? Email camillagoodman@trinitysouth.co.uk