A HOYLAND secondary school has announced it will ban skirts from its uniform from September next year in a bid to ‘reduce costs for families’.

In a letter to parents, principal of Kirk Balk Academy Hayley Craddock outlined the proposals which include a reduction in the number of branded items.

The new rules have been put forward in response to the Department for Educating changing its guidance on uniforms with the number of branded items now capped at three.

Mrs Craddock said: “From September 2026, the school uniform will no longer include skirts as an option, and all students will be expected to wear tailored school trousers.

“This decision has been made following careful consideration and feedback from all stakeholders across the trust, where it highlighted the benefits of a more practical, inclusive, and consistent uniform policy.

“The move to trousers for all students promotes equality and inclusivity, ensuring all students feel comfortable and supported.

“Trousers are also more practical for active learning and movement throughout the school day, while simplifying uniform requirements helps reduce costs for families.

“We understand that this is a significant change, which is why we are providing over a year’s notice to allow time for any necessary adjustments.”

School bosses have also confirmed that they will host uniform exchanges to ensure that families are supported.

Coun Andy Wray, who represents the Rockingham ward, told the Chronicle that he expects there to be a few ‘twists and turns’ regarding the new rules before they’re implemented.

He added: “I do believe a school uniform is important, not just for the school but for the individual child.

“Without a uniform, you’d see cart blanch weird and wonderful fashions.

“Kirk Balk have took this decision after talking to various people.

“The school feel this new uniform is fairer to all pupils.

“That being said, I also believe that girls should have been given the choice of a skirt, a determined length, properly worn and also trousers.

“I’ve never understood the need for girls to wear ties either, I mean you don’t see females wearing ties when they leave school.

“Although it’s still almost a year for it to be implemented, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a few twist and turns up to then.

“Northern Education Trust have moved in line with Department for Educaton and whether parents like it or not, they will have to conform with the new rules.”