All children are required to wear the correct school uniform. Section 72 of the Education Act 1989 gives a Board of Trustees powers to make ‘any by-laws the board thinks necessary or desirable for the control and management of the school’.

Uniform At Wairakei

Research and feedback from New Zealand and overseas schools indicate that proudly worn uniform gives each child an everyday, personal opportunity to practise respect. Respect is one of Wairakei’s values. Uniforms allow everyone to look the same and no one can be left out by the way they are dressed. Uniform also fosters a sense of belonging and community. The act of dressing in uniform also reinforces that the day is about many expectations and living up to those expectations.

We understand that in the winter months children need extra layers, however, these can be worn under their school garments (note: out of sight under their clothing. Long sleeve thermals and long skins need to be paired with the skivvy and trackpants). Jackets etc can be worn to and from school and at playtimes.

Any child who is not wearing the approved uniform will not be permitted to participate in activities offered outside of the curriculum such as trips and some sporting activities.

Culture tolerance and diversity are values to be celebrated. Wairakei is lucky to have a diverse community. There will be times where this uniform code will not apply in the interests of dignity and respect.

We will be looking for all children to be in the correct uniform from the start of term 3. The school holidays would be an opportune time to get this sorted.

Approved Items

You may wear items from this list.

Head

• Sunhat in term 1 and 4 - wide brimmed, bucket or legionnaire - any colour, though navy blue is the preferred choice - not alcohol or cigarette branding.
• Hair ties, headbands and scrunchies. Colours from the uniform navy - blue, black, white, gingham, red. Adornment free (no ears, bows etc).
• Stud earrings only

Shoulders

• Anderson tartan pinafore paired with navy/black/white socks or navy tights
• Blue and white gingham dress paired with navy/black/white socks or navy tights
• Navy & red polo shirt (logo) *Only available from school office
• Original red polo (please move to new navy and red polo when replacing)
• Red skivvy
• Navy skivvy
• Navy sweatshirt (logo) *Only available from Mainland Uniforms
• Navy ½ zip polar fleece (logo) *Only available from Mainland Uniforms

Knees

• Navy track pants
• Navy shorts
• Gingham culottes
• Navy culottes

Toes

• Navy, black or white socks
• Navy tights
• Footwear suitable for outdoor play, sport and fitness, comfort and safety

Sourcing Uniform

We have various second-hand items in the school office also. As indicated above some items may be purchased from the school, Mainland Uniforms, other various retail stores e.g. the navy blue shorts can be sourced from Postie Plus for $7.

Support With Uniform

Please come and see us if you need support with purchasing uniform. We have many ways of helping people attain these items.

On those days when there’s a last minute issue with uniform please let the school know through phoning, texting, emailing or written note. Your child’s clothing on these days needs to be as appropriate as possible. eg blue/black/dark, similar items, avoid pictures, avoid hoods.

If your child arrives at school in non-uniform items without explanation uniformed clothing may need to be borrowed from the school owned supply. It would need to be returned at the end of the day.

We thank you for your support in this matter.