|
I am delighted to be starting the year by contributing my first column to the magazine. The Schoolwear Association had a successful year in 2008; with the Untax Our Teens campaign during the summer and our stand at The Schoolwear Show, which had a remarkable turnout from people within the industry. During the back to school period I was anticipating an onslaught of negative press regarding the price of the schoolwear uniforms as we have come to expect from previous years. It appears that it was combated, in part, by the fantastic work put forward by everyone who works with or alongside the Schoolwear Association and we look to continue this momentum right through 2009.
With my 40 years of experience in the schoolwear market I will be using my knowledge to benefit the whole of the industry as the new Chairman of the Schoolwear Association. I think it is important that the school specific market continues to become more professional so that schools are offered the best support as well as providing quality products to heighten the standard of school uniforms, in order to ultimately offer the best value for money. There will also be a focus to concentrate on building on a cohesive relationship with our schools, in order to have greater awareness of the role and work of the Schoolwear Association.
The research conducted in 2008 by Oxford Brookes University revealed that children who wear school uniforms have a greater sense of pride for themselves as well as for their school, but the traditional British values and behaviour that are also part of school uniform continue to evolve. In 2009, we will be finding new and creative ways to continue to promote the benefits of school specific uniform.
I think it is vital for our progression, and for future campaigns, that we continue to work with Government, Opposition and other agencies such as Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) in order to further successful progress of the UnTax our Teens campaign and take up other important issues. We received a lot of support from retailers, parents, schools and MPs as well as our Early Days Motion receiving 64 signatures.
We have set goals for ourselves that requires a need to increase the membership of the Schoolwear Association, in order to achieve what we have set out. If you have not yet joined please do so whilst visiting www. schoolwearassociation.co.uk, where you will find lots more information on our work. It is incredible what has been achieved in two years, with so little resource. I think 2009 is going to be a great year for progress.
- Introducing the Sublideck 3D Sublimation System
- MHM Direct now a UK dealer for Brother Digital...
- New OKI 920WT white toner printer now available...
- Gildan secures deal to buy Anvil Holdings
- FDM….launch of a new brand by Fundamental Appar...
- Printwear & Promotion Live 2012
- Prestigious business award for Regatta
- Resolute DTG launches 45 second production curi...
- Inspiration and innovation from Ralawise
- Printwear & Promotion Live 2012
