Uniform

At Old Buckenham High School, we believe that wearing the correct uniform is an important part of belonging to our school community. It promotes a sense of pride, equality, and readiness to learn. Our uniform reflects our values of Community, Ambition, and Respect, and helps us maintain high standards across the school.

We expect all students to wear the correct uniform every day. When students arrive at school, they are greeted at the gate by staff and uniform is checked. If a student is not wearing the correct uniform, they will be challenged in line with our clear and consistent approach.

 

Uniform

This information clarifies the items of clothing and footwear which will not be permitted as part of the school uniform. We are grateful for your support in this.

 

Footwear

All students are to wear plain, black, sensible leather or leather look shoes. Any heel must be of a sensible height. There are to be no trainers/ look-alike, no canvas shoes, no high heels, no pumps or canvas pumps with laces.

 

Skirts and Trousers

All skirts worn must be the OBHS style. This is the Drop-Waisted All-Round Pleated Skirt which can be seen below. This is the only skirt approved to be worn as part of the school uniform. The skirt must not be rolled up at the waist.

All trousers must be plain black, tailored and full length. There are to be no figure-hugging or skinny-fit trousers, no jeans, jean like styling or cords, no leggings.

 

We have added an addition to our uniform list. Branded tailored shorts are now available from our supplier Birds of Dereham. These are an optional extra and do not need to be purchased.

 

Coats

Coats are required to be practical and smart in appearance and must be worn over the student’s blazer. Students are not permitted to wear leather or denim jackets. Hoodies are not permitted to be worn in school.

 

Nail Varnish and Jewellery

Students are permitted to wear one stud earring per ear only. No other jewellery (rings, bracelets, necklaces) is permitted. There are to be no facial piercings, including nose piercings, or any piercings of the tongue and mouth: the wearing of plastic retainer-style jewellery is permitted.

Make-up or nail varnish must be discreet, and teachers reserve the right to ask students to remove excessive makeup/nail varnish at their discretion. Hair should be natural in colour. Students are not permitted to shave their hair – either full head or in patterns or wear any extreme hair styles.  

 

PE

 

  • Plain white round-neck t-shirt
  • Royal Blue OBHS PE sweatshirt (no alternatives allowed)
  • Plain Black sports shorts (Mid thigh in length, elasticated waist)
  • OBHS black leggings (optional)
  • OBHS black tracksuit bottoms (optional)
  • Plain white sport socks (no trainer socks)
  • Royal blue football socks.
  • Sports trainers
  • Football boots (optional)

 

(Shin pads and gum shields are advisable for certain activities.)

 

We kindly remind all students to bring their PE kit on days when they have PE lessons scheduled. Ensuring that your child is prepared helps them make the most of their class time. If a student forgets their kit, they will need to attend a lunchtime detention, but we know this will rarely happen with your support.

 
Uniform Expectations and Procedures

 

  • Correct uniform is required every day. Students are checked on the gate each morning.If there is a valid reason for a uniform issue, parents/carers should provide a note, email, or phone call.
  • Students with a valid explanation will be given a ‘green card’ to show when challenged by staff.
  • If no explanation is provided, the student will receive a lunchtime detention that day.
  • Staff follow a ‘stop and fix’ approach – if the issue can be resolved quickly and the student responds politely, no further action is taken.
     

 

Affordability and Access

We are committed to making uniform affordable and accessible for all families:

 

  • Since September 2023, we have reduced the number of branded items required.
  • Branded items can now be purchased from multiple suppliers, giving families more choice and flexibility.
  • There is no need to replace existing branded items that are no longer compulsory – students may continue to wear them.
  • Most items can be purchased unbranded from high-street retailers or supermarkets, provided they meet the school’s uniform standards.

 

If you are struggling to access any part of the uniform during the school year, please contact the school office. We are here to help and can offer support and guidance where needed.

 

Second-Hand Uniform

Old Buckenham High School actively encourages families to donate and reuse uniform items through our OBHS Second Hand Uniform Facebook Page. This is a fantastic way to reduce costs and minimise waste, while supporting other families in our school community.

 

Where to Buy Uniform

You can purchase branded uniform items from our trusted suppliers, who offer both in-store and online services:

 

Birds of Dereham

 

 

Stevensons

 

 

Uniform Summary

Some key items of the school uniform include:

 

  • OBHS black blazer with school logo
  • White shirt (tucked in) with OBHS tie
  • Black tailored trousers or OBHS-approved skirt
  • Black school shoes (no trainers or canvas)
  • One set of stud earrings, no facial piercings or rings
  • Full PE kit as listed in the policy

 

Further guidance on jewellery, makeup, and hairstyles is included in the full policy.

Full Uniform Policy

 

Wearing the correct uniform helps us all show that we’re part of something special – a school community that works hard, supports one another, and takes pride in high standards.

If you have any questions or need support, please get in touch with the school office. We're here to help.