After a lengthy process, Mount Aspiring College (MAC) has this week reported progress on its plans for a new uniform. 

Principal Wayne Bosley said in 2018 the school’s uniform had not been formally reviewed since the school was established in 1986 and a uniform review made sense given the school’s growth and ongoing changes. 

In a letter to parents and caregivers this week, Wayne revealed some details about the colour scheme for the new uniform and said a full design would be available to view this month. 

“The colours of the new uniform will be a refresh of the traditional colours...three consistent colours will be used throughout,” he said. “These colours will be blues, white and grey.”

“These colours will be consistently applied across the day-to-day school, sports and cultural (eg. choir, kapa haka, debating) uniform items.” 

A complete design option featuring the colours mentioned above will be on display at the MAC office foyer from next Friday (March 13), at the Wanaka A&P Show, and at the school’s community information session at the school gym on Monday March 16. 

“As always, we welcome your feedback and will be providing an opportunity for you to do so during the month of March,” Wayne said. 

The school is working with suppliers to manufacture the new uniform, with a view to partial implementation from 2021. A transition plan will be put in place for the roll-out of the uniform, taking into account the financial implications for families, including a hardship provision. 

“We acknowledge that this community led project has taken a long time and we thank you for your patience,” Wayne said. “[We] look forward to showcasing the completed garments and piloting specific items in the coming months.”

The review has been undertaken by a subcommittee of students, teachers, parents and board of trustees members, with additional input from the wider MAC community via focus groups and surveys.

Subcommittee chair Shona Brown told the Wanaka App last year the uniform will offer “gender diverse options” and “layering options all year round” rather than distinct summer and winter uniforms.

PHOTO: Wanaka App