Strict rules on uniforms contrary to direction of education reform
Thanks to Paul Surtees for shedding some light for me on the mysterious topic of school uniforms ('Uniforms are about vital factors: school spirit and discipline', Education Post, October 27).
Having grown up in the US only in public schools where uniforms were not required, I find the requirements in Hong Kong regarding school attire quite restrictive, and even contrary to the direction of school reform, which is towards greater creativity and active student learning.
My daughter's school not only requires uniforms but coloured hair ties are not allowed - only black ones - and socks and running shoes must be 'pure white'.
Indeed it was a telling analogy when Mr Surtees compared schools with the 'disciplined services' of police, army, etc. Uniforms and such strict requirements of dress do indeed contribute to a similar atmosphere to those - i.e., deterring humour and fun, repressing individuality and creativity and fostering blind adherence to rules.
I do not discount the need for rules and the contributions a uniform could make towards a common school spirit. However, to encourage learning, and not just 'being taught', schools could try to strike a better balance between discipline and fostering a sense of pleasure in attending school and learning.
