School buys 270 items of uniform to support parents

Andy Brown became Derby Cathedral School's new head teacher in September

A head teacher in Derby has kicked off the school year by buying 270 items of brand-new school uniform to support parents and students.

Andy Brown, 39, from Sutton Coldfield, became the new head teacher of Derby Cathedral School in September following a lengthy career in education.

Mr Brown, who also used to be a professional footballer for Scunthorpe United, said the school was aiming to avoid confrontation about uniform with students and parents through its approach.

Speaking to the BBC, Mr Brown said: "We bought 120 pairs of shoes, 25 blazers, 25 shirts, 25 trousers, 25 skirts and around 50 ties."

The school has bought 270 new items of uniform to help students and parents

"We preemptively had it, and what we said to them was 'you're not in trouble, we're setting a new standard'.

"They go into the room and get given shoes, tie, a blazer, whatever they needed and then they went straight back into lesson.

"There were no detentions, no confrontation, simply 'you need to change it, thank you for changing it, go back and enjoy your learning'."

The new uniform was funded through the school's budget, but the school also relies on pre-loved items.

"We had some pre-loved stuff, and that's often what we offer to parents who are really struggling," said Mr Brown.

"I wanted to increase uniform standards, but what I didn't want to do was become that person that it becomes a confrontation with.

"We know some of our parents struggle to afford uniforms. We know there's a massive thing around uniform at the minute about branded items and it's affordability."

Derby Cathedral School has approximately 1,200 students

Mr Brown said he ran a similar scheme at his previous school.

He used to teach physical education alongside business and economics before becoming an English teacher and then a head teacher.

Alongside his educational career, Mr Brown previously balanced playing semi-professionally in the National League and National League North.

Sarah Clark, CEO of Derby Diocesan Academy Trust, said: "He has made an enormous impact already, and it was a joy to see that he was addressing uniform issues head-on by providing shoes and clothing for those who required it.

"This is the kind of leadership we value across the Trust: high expectations, practical support and a community where every child can flourish. What a great start to the new school year."