Looking smart, feeling proud...

At Lilliput CE Infant School, we want every child to feel that they belong. School uniform helps to create a strong sense of community, ensuring that children feel included, equal and part of our school family. When children wear their uniform, it fosters a sense of pride in being part of our school, and helps them to recognise that they are connected to something bigger than themselves.

Uniform also has practical benefits. It helps children feel ready to learn, removes pressure around clothing choices and enables staff to identify pupils easily when we are out in the local community on walks, visits and educational trips.

We are committed to keeping our uniform expectations accessible and affordable for all families. Our uniform can be purchased from the PMG Schoolwear shop in Poole High Street or from any other high street, or online store. We also have a range of good-quality, school-branded pre-loved uniform items available from the school office. This is organised by our PTFA, with all proceeds used to enhance the school experience of our children.

Our uniform expectations have been carefully designed to balance smart appearance, practicality and affordability. We do not expect children to wear expensive or specialist items and encourage families to choose affordable options wherever possible.

Hair, PE and Safety

We ask that all children with hair that is shoulder length or longer, or hair that can fall across their face or eyes, have it tied back or secured during PE lessons. This expectation is based on guidance from the Association for Physical Education, which recommends that long hair should be secured during physical activity to reduce safety risks and enable children to participate safely and comfortably.

More broadly, the school's strong recommendation is that children with shoulder-length hair or longer, or hair that regularly falls into their eyes, keep it tied back throughout the school day. There are several reasons for this:

• It can help reduce the likelihood of head lice being transferred between children.
• Active playtimes often involve running, climbing and physical games where loose hair can become a distraction.
• Hair that falls into a child's eyes can interfere with concentration, comfort and learning.

This is a strong recommendation rather than a school rule and will not normally be enforced during classroom learning or playtimes. However, children will be expected to have long hair secured during PE lessons and other physical activities, in line with health and safety guidance.

For full details of our uniform expectations, including PE kit, footwear, jewellery and summer uniform options, please refer to the information below: