From September 2022, our school, The Deeping’s School, amongst many across the country, will begin transitioning back to pre- covid rules and regulations. I propose we keep the PE kit rule that was introduced during the pandemic, allowing students to wear their PE uniform for any days they have a lesson. This is a rule change that has been hugely beneficial in lots of secondary settings, and one that can continue to benefit students and their school. 
COVID has shown a considerable depletion of mental health services accessibility due to an enormous rise in the cases of mental health issues in teenagers. One of these being body confidence and self esteem. Throwing young people into a situation where they are getting changed once again amongst their peers, will inevitably lead to further anxiety and vulnerability, even potentially leading to an increase in eating disorders and absences from school. 
In addition to this, carrying around our kit for PE, alongside books and resources for now six lessons, is impractical. We won’t be able to access lockers or any kind of storage, which isn’t helpful at all.

As a school that reflects diversity and stands against discrimination, reinstating the PE change rule, will force many students into difficult situations regarding transgender and the LGBT community, particularly where they can get changed and feel comfortable. 

I propose we keep the existing rules in place, the kit has no negative effect on how we behave in classes, and will make Physical Education lessons more proactive in their time usage. I feel we have a student voice and we should be listened to, and our views considered.