UNIFORM UPROAR: Springwell parents to complain to Government watchdog

As reported earlier this month, parents of youngsters at Springwell Community College hit out after being told they had to buy uniforms from the school’s supplier rather than local retailers.

Now, independent Staveley campaigner Mick Bagshaw has written a letter of complaint to Ofsted on behalf of parents. Mr Bagshaw said he expects about 50 parents to send the letter to Ofsted.

The letter states parents felt 'bullied' into buying the uniforms from a supplier and points to a number of grievances about the clothes being too expensive, wrong sizes being sent and children being punished for not wearing the correct items.

Springwell headteacher Ian Wingfield said: "The idea to introduce a single uniform supplier was suggested by parents during one of our open forum meetings. We consulted with parents and the vast majority supported the change and most of our students are now looking very smart in the new uniform.

"We’ve met with Mr Bagshaw to discuss his concerns and will continue to offer help to parents and carers if our uniform expectations are causing difficulties."