A Newcastle mother is making waves with her passionate plea to change her son's school's coat policy, citing safety and practicality concerns. The mother, Mairi Stanton, is not alone in her frustration, as over 600 people have signed her petition. The issue at hand is the strict coat policy at Jesmond Park Academy, which requires students to wear a black fleece and/or a black coat with the school logo. But here's where it gets controversial... Mairi believes that the school's coat policy is 'not acceptable at all' and is calling for the Gosforth Group, which manages the academy, to allow children to wear their own coats to school. The controversy arises from the fact that the school's coat policy does not address the visibility problem, as the black coat does not provide enough contrast for students walking home in the dark. Moreover, the coats are not warm enough and do not hold up to heavy rain, making them 'not fit for purpose'. The mother's concerns are further emphasized by the recent accident involving a 16-year-old pupil who was seriously injured on Newton Road after being hit by a car. This incident has heightened parents' worries for their children's safety when walking home in the dark. The school has issued reflective snap bands, but Mairi argues that this does not solve the visibility problem. The new Government guidance, set to come into force in September 2026, recommends that schools limit the number of compulsory branded items of uniform and PE kit to three or fewer, and ensure that their uniform is suitable and safe for pupils who walk or cycle to school. The school's proposed uniform includes a waterproof, non-padded plain black coat that can fit inside the student's school bag. However, Mairi believes that the school should allow students to wear their own coats, as teachers do not wear padded coats on the schoolyard and wear their own clothes on the way to work. The councillor for Manor Park, where the school is located, supports Mairi's petition, stating that parents should have the autonomy to make decisions about their children's clothing. The petition invites discussion and encourages parents to voice their agreement or disagreement in the comments. So, what do you think? Is the school's coat policy reasonable, or should students be allowed to wear their own coats? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
