Sixth Form Dress Code

Rationale for our dress code

How you dress can affect your mindset for learning. Psychological Studies have shown a connection between clothing and confidence: this phenomenon is known as "enclothed cognition," a term coined by researchers Hajo Adam and Adam Galinsky (2012, pp.918-925). Their studies showed that wearing specific clothing could affect psychological processes and performance.

Our modern business dress code therefore encourages students to look smart and present themselves in a manner that reflects the standards of a professional academic environment. By adhering to this code, our sixth formers not only enhance their own self-presentation but also contribute to a positive and respectful learning atmosphere for everyone.  

Wearing modern business attire reinforces the importance of academic and personal development during this crucial stage of education. It sets a standard of seriousness and responsibility, helping students focus on their studies and long-term goals. 

Permitted dress:

We believe that our dress code should reflect the modern business environment; although students are permitted to wear a full suit and tie, this is not obligatory. This is reflective of the modern world of work and allows our dress code to remain smart without appearing old fashioned and ‘stuffy’.

In addition to wearing their school lanyard at all times around this building, we expect students to wear the following:

  • A collared shirt, including a smart business shirt or plain polo shirt.

  • A smart style blouse or top appropriate for a work environment.

  • Smart business style trousers, chinos in plain colours (no patterns) or smart black jeans which are not torn or have logos on them (these should be straight jeans not baggy jeans).

  • Smart business style dress or professional, appropriate length business skirt (not denim).

  • Smart business shoes or boots - neutral colours.

  • Trainers in plain block colours are also permitted as we recognise that students should be comfortable walking to and from school.

  • Jumpers/roll necks/cardigans must be smart and must not have large logos on them; small logos only are permitted. They should only be worn over the top over an accepted shirt, polo shirt or top listed above.

  • Full business suits are permitted – blazers and ties are optional.

  • Headwear may be worn for religious, medical or cultural purposes but must be in neutral colours of black, dark blue, grey or white

Not permitted

  • No denim items apart from smart black jeans listed above.

  • No sportswear, cargo trousers, hoodies, leggings, shorts, casual jumpers and t-shirts.

  • No items with excessively large logos.

  • No short skirts, short bodycon dresses, low cut strappy tops, bare midriffs, backless and off the shoulder tops.

  • No sliders, crocs, uggs or flip flops.

  • No outdoor clothing such as coats and scarves and hats worn when inside the classroom.

Additional items

Students taking A Level Art, DT Product Design or DT fashion and textiles should buy an apron to work in.

Students taking practical lessons in A Level Dance or Drama should bring leggings, tight joggers or tights/leotard or equivalent tight top with no midriff showing. Students should change into these clothes immediately prior to any practical lesson and change back into their smart clothes at the end of the lesson.

Sanctions for non-compliance

While we trust our students to uphold this dress code, our Sixth Form staff will provide guidance and ensure it is adhered to. 

Dress code infringements will be addressed by teaching staff in accordance with our behaviour policy. In the rare event of a serious or repeated dress code violation, students will be asked to return home to change and will be asked to catch up with any work they have missed during a sixth form Study Support Session.