Madam,

Child poverty is currently high in Ceredigion and particularly so in some wards in Aberystwyth, such as Rheidol and Penparcau.

It is therefore a matter of some concern that Ysgol Penglais is punishing some pupils for so-called uniform infringements, which often arise as a result of the widespread effects of austerity.

It is my opinion that Ysgol Penglais is penalising pupils from lower-income families, which simply proves that school uniform is not the great equaliser that some claim it to be.

Further, the school has faced more significant problems recently than pupils wearing shoes that management deem to be ‘not polishable’.

May I suggest that the school’s management focuses upon polishing its record instead, on issues such as substance misuse, bullying, mental health problems and providing permanent teaching staff.

I would much prefer to see a safe happy environment and quality teaching provision for the young people of Aberystwyth and the surrounding areas rather than polished expensive shoes and perfectly neat uniforms.

Yours etc.

Cllr Claudine Young, Dinas Terrace, Aberystwyth.

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