KIRKBIE Kendal School pupils will be expected to wear a new blazer after its head teacher and governors decided to smarten up the uniform.

Phil Hyman wrote to parents saying students representing KKS at national competitions said they felt ‘scruffy’ compared to pupils from other schools.

“Considering the school and national picture, staff and I felt that it is in the best interests of the school and our students to have a smarter uniform,” wrote Mr Hyman.

“We have, therefore, considered all our uniform options carefully, and we have come to the decision that now is the right time to introduce a tie and blazer. As well as looking smarter than a sweatshirt, the tie and blazer will mean that white shirts can be purchased from local stores.”

Students can wear the new uniform from September at their parents’ discretion but it will be compulsory from September 2014.