Headteacher brands petition to allow female pupils to wear trousers ‘unacceptable behaviour’

Headteacher of a grammar school for girls brands petition for female pupils to wear trousers as part of school uniform ‘unacceptable behaviour’

  • Pupils of Wirral Grammar School for Girls launched petition to change uniform 
  • Headteacher Elaine Cogan branded the online petition ‘unacceptable behaviour’
  • Asked for the support of parents adding ‘this is not how change takes place’ 

A headteacher has branded an online petition to change the school’s uniform policy to allow girls to wear trousers ‘unacceptable behaviour’. 

Pupils of Wirral Grammar School for Girls have launched a petition to change their uniform policy that currently only allows skirts to be worn by pupils all-year round.

In a letter to parents seen by the Liverpool Echo, headteacher Elaine Cogan asked for ‘support’ after over 2,500 people signed the petition, and said the board of governors would not be forced into a decision. 

She added that she had already spoken to the child who started the petition, adding that ‘this is not how change takes place’.  

Pupils of Wirral Grammar School for Girls have launched a petition to change their uniform policy that currently only allows skirts to be worn by their pupils all year round

The letter reads: ‘This behaviour is unacceptable particularly when there is no need. 

‘If the Board of Governors decide there is a call to change our uniform policy that would consult with parents of this school for their thoughts before any change was made.

‘I would appreciate your support in this matter.’  

The headteacher said it was a ‘great shame’ the student had not come to her first, so she could tell her that the uniform policy would be discussed by herself, the board of governors and a new headteacher appointed next month. 

In a letter to parents, headteacher Elaine Cogan (pictured) asked for 'support' after over 2,500 people signed the petition and branded it 'unacceptable behaviour'

In a letter to parents, headteacher Elaine Cogan (pictured) asked for ‘support’ after over 2,500 people signed the petition and branded it ‘unacceptable behaviour’ 

Ms Cogan said she had already spoken with the pupil and her friends, who believed that public action would require the board to make a swift decision, adding: ‘This is not how change takes place.’  

Addressed to Ms Cogan, the school’s governors, the local council and the school board, the petition reads: ‘Wirral Grammar School for Girls is the only school on the Wirral which doesn’t allow girls to wear trousers to school, we are aiming to change this with your help! 

‘Even if you wouldn’t wear trousers, supporting this means that people who would like to wear trousers would be able to do so!’ 

The petition has gained 2,544 signatures so far and under reasons for signing, a parent at the school branded the uniform policy ‘archaic’, while others agreed that all pupils should be able to wear trousers regardless of gender. 

Under reasons for signing, a parent at the school branded the uniform policy 'archaic', while others agreed that all pupils should be able to wear trousers regardless of gender

Under reasons for signing, a parent at the school branded the uniform policy ‘archaic’, while others agreed that all pupils should be able to wear trousers regardless of gender

The concerned mum said: ‘My daughter goes here and it’s completely outdated & archaic that a woman in 2021 cannot wear trousers. Until research shows exposed legs can improve education then let them choose trousers!’ 

Another said: ‘I’m in total agreement that pupils should be ‘allowed’ to wear trousers regardless of their gender.’  

‘Refusing to allow Wirral Girls to wear trousers(if they choose) is simply archaic, not in line with the 2010 equality act and does not challenge stereotypical assumptions, and gender discrimination ‘, a third agreed. 

Wirral Grammar School for Girls has been contacted for comment.