Hairstyles: FAQ

The school has very high standards for the uniform and appearance of its students.  As part of this, we have clear expectations on the style of hair that is deemed appropriate for the school environment as set out below.

Students are expected to have:-

• Moderate hairstyles, avoiding extremes that are not the norm within our society
• Hair of a natural colour or highlighting that is seen as the norm within our society
Hair ornaments are not permitted, though neat and smart braiding is acceptable and any religious requirements with regard to hairstyle will be accepted after consultation with the Year Team

We hope that, when choosing Cheam High School for your child, you made a positive choice in favour of these standards and ask that you ensure your son/daughter meets our expectations with regard to their chosen hairstyle and colour.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why don’t you allow certain hairstyles in school?
We recognise that changing hairstyles are part of modern everyday society.  However, the school is a work environment for a large number of children and young adults who can be at a vulnerable stage of their life.  It is our opinion that extreme styles are not appropriate in such an environment.

We are also aware that many young people feel the need to conform to trends and that many parents do not wish their children to be in an environment where certain extreme trends are permitted and likely to be copied.

What will happen if my child does not conform to school expectations?
We believe that learning how to conform to hair style and colour expectations is important in life – whether it be for a work situation, or in preparation for an important and formal social occasion.

Failure to comply with our simple guidelines regarding hair style or colour will result in the loss of social time for the student.  The Year Team will decide what further action is needed if the matter cannot be rectified in the short term.  You will be informed of the concern and of the action being taken.

Should there be continued failure to meet our expectations, this will be seen as deliberate and repeated defiance and treated accordingly.  This may include more serious sanctions including internal or external exclusion as appropriate.

There are other students in the school with extreme hairstyles, what is happening to them?
At Cheam High School we attempt to be consistent in our approach to all students.  We try to make sure that our stance is logical, clearly explained and that we have a consistent rationale that we apply fairly.  Policy and procedures are clearly laid out so that all staff are aware of the school’s expectations across a range of matters.  Students not meeting these expectations are thus dealt with in the same way.  We always aim to treat students fairly and consistently. 

What about hairstyles and colour for Sixth Form students?
Sixth form students are allowed more latitude, though still have clear expectations with regard to their general appearance.  Should a hair style be so extreme that it was felt to be socially isolating or threatening, then this would require intervention and would not be deemed acceptable. 

What do I do if I don’t agree with your policy on hairstyles?
As always, if you feel an approach is unfair or unreasonable, then you can write to the Headteacher and/or Governing Body asking for a review.