Working as an Orthotist at Sheffield Children's Hospital, I’ve seen firsthand how inappropriate school shoes can cause foot problems—or make existing ones worse.

I spend a lot of time writing to individual schools about one simple change—one that could ease pain, improve comfort for many children, and save families money. That change is allowing children to wear black trainers to school.

Orthotists and podiatrists are healthcare professionals who can support children and young people who experience pain or difficulty walking, often by providing insoles and splints. But these supports don’t always fit well in the standard school shoes many UK schools require.

We believe children should be able to bring their whole selves to school—and footwear should not be a barrier. Just as workplaces have evolved over the past five years to allow more flexibility in how people dress to support well-being, it’s time we extend the same consideration to schoolchildren.

Healthcare professionals are often asked: “Is it okay for my child to wear trainers?” The answer is yes. Trainers are designed to support movement and meet children’s needs throughout the day. They offer comfort, a range of fittings, grip for safety, and they work better with insoles and splints—making them an inclusive and practical choice.

We understand that school uniform policies aim to promote equality and a sense of belonging. Allowing plain black trainers still supports this goal. In fact, many forward-thinking schools already allow them. But too many still insist on traditional shoes that don’t meet the needs of all children.

Allowing black trainers would:

• Support children’s comfort and foot health
• Help families save money by avoiding the need for separate school and activity shoes
• Make school uniforms more inclusive for children and young people’s needs
• Keep children safe and ready for physical activity

Children know their own feet and what feels comfortable. Giving them a choice in what they wear is a small change that can make a big difference.

Importantly, the professional bodies that represent orthotists and podiatrists support this petition. They recognise that footwear plays a vital role in children’s health—and that school policies should reflect this.

Join us in calling for a change to school uniform policies. Let’s allow plain black trainers as part of school uniforms—so children can be comfortable, safe, and ready to learn and play.

Sign this petition to urge school leaders and policymakers to prioritise children’s health and well-being.

Find out more about orthotists and podiatrists here:

https://www.bapo.com/aboutbapo/who-are-prosthetists-and-orthotists/

https://rcpod.org.uk/careers/what-is-a-podiatrist