A SCHOOL uniform company has claimed that pupils cite uncomfortable uniforms as reasons for wanting to stay off school.
The firm reported that as many as a quarter of children’s willingness to get ready for class because of a uniform issue.
They say that although “affordability” is a key focus, new research reveals the “negative effects that uncomfortable uniforms have on school children”.
The research by schoolwear company Flydays followed a survey of 1,000 parents with school-aged children.
A spokesperson said: “It revealed that nearly one-in-four parents (23%) say their child has asked to stay home from school because of an uncomfortable uniform.
“The research also revealed that 47 per cent of Irish children complain about their uniforms being uncomfortable at least once a week.
“Some 27 per cent of parents say uncomfortable uniform has distracted their child from learning and meant they struggled to concentrate.
“Some 56 per cent often or always ask to change out of their uniform immediately after getting home because they find it uncomfortable.
“The impact of uncomfortable clothing also extends beyond the classroom with more than a quarter of parents (26 per cent) saying discomfort led their child to avoid sport or playground activities.
“Top complaints, according to parents, include itchy fabric (49 per cent), shirts being uncomfortable around the neck (35 per cent), and restricted movement (34 per cent).
“In fact, over half (56 per cent) of parents say their child often, if not always, asks to change out of their uniform immediately after getting home because they find it uncomfortable.
“The research showed that 65 per cent of parents agree that schools should prioritise comfort as much as appearance when choosing uniforms.
“Some 57 per cent said comfort of the uniform would be the most important factor for them if their child’s school reviewed its uniform policy.”