We are calling on Leigh Academy Stationers to amend its Behaviour and Uniform Policy to allow headscarves worn for cultural as well as religious reasons.

The current policy explicitly recognises religious headwear. However, it does not provide the same clarity or recognition for cultural headscarves linked to ethnic heritage. As a result, my daughter has been singled out and challenged daily for wearing a plain black headscarf that does not cover her face or school uniform.

Cultural identity is deeply connected to ethnicity and heritage. Jamaican culture — along with many African, Caribbean, Asian, and other global cultures — includes longstanding traditions of headscarves and headwraps. These are not fashion items. They represent ancestry, dignity, pride, and generational heritage.

Race and ethnicity are protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. Schools have a responsibility to ensure that policies are applied fairly and do not disproportionately impact particular communities.

No student should feel targeted or repeatedly approached because of their cultural identity.

We are asking Leigh Academy Stationers to:

Amend its uniform policy to explicitly allow plain, compliant headscarves worn for cultural as well as religious reasons.

Ensure that no student is singled out or sanctioned for respectful cultural expression.

Demonstrate a genuine commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion for all backgrounds.

Schools should be environments where young people feel safe, respected, and confident in who they are.

This petition calls for fairness, consistency, and cultural recognition for all students.