I’m not sure when school uniforms became a thing in Irish primary schools but they’re certainly a thing now. There are very few schools (outside the Educate Together and CoI system) that don’t do uniforms but are they fit for purpose anymore? Parents tend to argue that they reduce bullying or they make everyone equal but both of these arguments don’t stand up to scrutiny. To me uniforms create more problems, particularly when it comes to gender conformity and then there’s the whole problem of religious iconography on them. Ultimately, they are divisive tools rather than giving a sense of belonging. They are also dull dull dull! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit simonmlewis.substack.com/subscribe

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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