Code of Conduct Change: Self-Expression at Branksome
One of our core values here at Branksome is a strong sense of community. The student body is able to highlight this strong sense of community through the tartan-adorned uniforms we wear with pride.
This year, a change in the Code of Conduct allows students to wear whatever non-clothing items they want. In past years, dyeing hair, painting nails, and wearing jewelry were not permitted, but this small change in the code of conduct allows students to express themselves in a physical way within our school environment.
When asked about the thought process behind this decision, Dr. B, Assistant Head of Student Experience replied, “The restrictions on non-clothing uniform pieces felt outdated and not in touch with the ways that adolescents express themselves today. Students live their lives each day and express their authentic, genuine selves through things like hair, nail polish, or jewelry.”
Our community thrives off of diversity. When students are permitted to be their full authentic selves, our school is better because of it. Grade 10 student Bea Butterfield has neon red hair, black painted nails, and wears as many bracelets on her wrist as she can fit. Bea says that her hair perfectly reflects who she is on the inside, on the outside. “I always wanted to dye my hair… cause I wanted a way to sort of express myself like that, in a way that would fit my personality.” Bea is one example of many students at our school who feel more comfortable now that they are able to express themselves while still adhering to the uniform.
When asked how wearing these accessories made her feel, Bea said, “Being able to dye my hair and wear a million necklaces and seven hundred rings, it feels like I can look in the mirror and see myself. I have this ring and it has the colours that reflect my pride flag. Wearing that ring at school makes me feel so comfortable, I can’t explain why, but it does.”
Self-expression is the key to a better, more inclusive Branksome Hall. Through these new regulations, we give our students room to express their most authentic selves in the classroom, creating a more inclusive, interesting, and comfortable learning environment for all. What could be more exciting than that?