As parents and carers of children at Kells Lane Primary School in Low Fell, Gateshead we are deeply concerned about the proposed uniform changes at the school and the overall handling of this process.

We urge the school management to pause this proposed change and consultation process immediately. We believe that any such decision should involve thorough consultation with parents/carers and pupils - the key people who are directly affected by these changes. The proposed consultation process does not achieve this, focussing narrowly on one aspect of the change (dress colour).

The proposed uniform change brings with it significant cost and environmental implications. Scrapping the existing uniforms means unnecessary expenditure for families already grappling with economic challenges. Moreover, it contributes to environmental waste as thousands of items of perfectly usable uniforms will be discarded rather than passed on to future pupils, often whilst raising funds for the school.

Furthermore, we request an urgent revision in communication about colour symbolism to our children. The communication about this aspect of the change is very concerning and seems to be based on opinion(s) which may not be shared by parents/carers and represent a significant over-reach on how a branding change should be explained to children.

In conclusion, we call upon everyone who cares about Kells Lane Primary School; open and transparent consultation processes; economic realities; environmental sustainability and the appropriate communication of change to children – to please sign this petition.

NB This petition is to capture publicly the volume of concern. We would also encourage fuller specific feedback to be shared with kellslane@klps.org.uk clearly marked ‘Uniform Consultation’, or hard copies may be handed into the school office. Please make any comments to school by Friday 3 May.