STUDENTS will be forced to wear clip-on ties at Neale-Wade Academy, in March, to ensure they are worn correctly as part of the new uniform.

Principal Jason Wing revealed the move to clip-on ties in a blog this week after concerns from some parents that students will not wear them properly.

But only boys will have to wear the clip-on ties in the new uniform, which will be introduced in September.

The boys’ uniform will consist of a blazer, trousers, jumper and clip-on tie.

Girls’ uniform will consist of a blazer, trousers and a jumper, with the option of a skirt. They are not required to wear a tie and will need to wear a Revere style collared blouse.

Mr Wing said: “Shirts and blouses are available from a variety of suppliers including local supermarkets whilst the other items will be supplied by Sportswear International.”

Mr Wing also said that the current Year 10 students will continue to wear the current uniform of polo shirt and sweatshirt.

He said: “After seeing the reports online I felt that it was appropriate to clarify some misconceptions regarding the new academy uniform.

“Our sponsors, The Active Learning Trust, will be funding the uniform costs for our current students who are in Years 7, 8 and 9. Our current Year 10 students will continue to wear what will be the old uniform of polo shirt and sweatshirt.

“I have not written to parents yet regarding the uniform changes as I am still awaiting confirmation as to when our current students and new Year 7 students for September will be fitted for their uniform.

“As soon as I have the dates confirmed I will formally write to all parents concerned to outline the process.”

Students at Thomas Clarkson Academy, in Wisbech, also wear ties as part of the new uniform which was introduced at the start of this school year. The school produced a 75-second video teaching teenagers how to tie a tie (see Related Link at the top of the page).