Interviewer: Hello, everyone! My name is James Allen and I’m bringing up another issue surrounded by a lot of debate–school uniforms! Yes, I know–we’ve all heard of their pros and cons, but what if there could be a compromise? That’s why I’m here at Sunny Hills secondary school in London. Its headmistress, Mrs. Jane Smith, found an amazing solution to the problem. Hello, Mrs. Smith!

Head mistress: Hello, James! It’s great to have you here!

I: So, I’ve heard your school deals with uniforms in an interesting way. Could you tell us more about it?

H: Of course! As you well know, a lot of students often aren’t happy with school uniforms. They have to follow some rules and they don’t always enjoy it. They especially don’t like how everyone looks the same. I can definitely see how uniforms limit self‑expression! That’s why we’ve introduced a pins system.

H: Now, that sounds interesting! Could you tell us more about it?

P: Sure! The truth is that despite quite a few cons, uniforms have a lot of pros as well. They increase a sense of community between students. However, no one said you couldn’t have your cake and eat it, too! That’s why we introduced pins. They are small accessories. Students can customise their uniforms with them. For example, they can add a pin with their favourite band to their blazer. Everyone still has to wear the same school uniform, but pins help students feel unique!

H: That’s a brilliant idea! Are there any limitations to what students can add?

P: Yes. Each student can add a maximum of 7 pins. We ought to be reasonable! Too many accessories and a uniform doesn't look like a uniform! (laughs) What's more, the pins cannot have any offensive or political messages on them. Students are free to express themselves, but not at the cost of offending others!

H: That makes sense. I wonder though, what about less fortunate students? What if they can’t afford pins and charms? Won’t they stand out from the crowd and feel ashamed because of it?

P: That’s a very important question. Luckily, I have an answer for that. Our school is aware uniforms can be expensive. Adding more to them only increases the cost. That’s why we have a donation box. It’s specifically for pins. Everyone can put in a pin that another student can take for themselves. Our students love this and the box is never empty!

H: Huh, that’s a great solution to this problem. I’m very impressed! Could you now tell me how this entire idea came about?

P: Well, we’ve always been aware of the school uniform debate. However, we’ve also known students must wear uniforms at our school. That’s why we started looking for solutions that’d help students feel unique even in uniforms. We’ve had a lot of school assemblies on this subject and even a vote! In the end, the students could choose between customising their uniforms or having one day a month without them. Customising won!

H: I see. I think your school really did find the solution to the entire issue. Do you maybe have something to say to other schools about it?

P: Yes! I understand that uniforms are a long and important tradition. I do agree they have a lot of pros. However, we must always think of our students first. Each one has a unique personality. We must teach them a proper dress code but not at the cost of who they are. After all, even if they have a dress code at work in the future, they will still show some of their personality. Maybe with a specific watch or jewellery or colours they choose! That’s why some uniform customisation is a great idea. I urge every school to try it.

I: Well said. Thank you very much for talking with me Mrs. Smith!