It may seem a contradiction in terms to some pupils but the school uniform market is very much driven by trends. To the outsider it may seem that year in, year out little changes - and certainly this would be the impression you would get if you supermarket shop where the same old greywear is hung out for a few weeks every year - but nothing could be further from the truth.

Those retailers who take the business seriously and who deal in school uniform all year round, offering a full service 52 weeks of the year, know that like other apparel trends schoolwear does change and a retailer needs to keep one step ahead of the game.

One significant trend which is having a marked effect on school uniform suppliers is the ever-increasing concern from schools regarding health and safety. Looking after pupils has of course always been a priority for teaching staff, however today's school exists in an extremely litigious climate. As a result, although often ridiculed in the media, schools have to examine the safety aspects of all elements of the school day and impose bans on any item which may have any sort of potential to cause harm.

The traditional school tie has been affected by this health and safety epidemic and we are observing a considerable increase in demand for clip-on ties as a result. Another benefit of the clip-on is uniformity - there is little opportunity for pupils to ‘Hollyoaks-ify' their tie with short tails, fat knots etc.

It is not just individual schools making health and safety amends to uniform. The Government's code of practice on school uniforms emphasises the importance of incorporating bright or reflective materials to improve road safety in the winter. As a result, this year will see an increase in schools adding a Hi-Viz trim to school bags and reflective stripes on school scarves.

Manufacturers must also adhere to European standards on mechanical safety meaning that there are no toggles or gimmicks which might harm children when out at play.

Schools themselves follow trends and we are seeing an increasing number either adopting or reverting to the House system. Although traditionally associated with public schools, the House system is a simple way to build team spirit, foster healthy competitive spirit and increase the feeling of inclusion within the school. House colours naturally create an impact on the school uniform market with demand growing for ties and sports polo shirts in different colours or white with house colours tipped onto the collar to distinguish between different house members.

Finally the onward march of the Government's Academies is certainly having an impact on the school-specific uniform market. These schools are using uniform to make a statement to their pupils and to the wider community that they mean business. As such they are leading the way in smart school uniform and moving towards what may be described as a more corporate look, particularly for the sixth form.

We anticipate that other schools will start following where the Academies lead to avoid being left behind. Uniform policy is often the first step towards promoting a sense of identity and creating a social leveller and is a highly visible instrument of change. The benefits of school specific uniform are well recognised by headteachers who understand that good uniform can help to engender a sense of belonging and identity with the school.

Uniform will continue to evolve and the specialists will continue to work with the schools to offer garments which reflect both the needs, and the trends, of the day.

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