A SECONDARY school near Devizes has taken its uniform revamp to the next level by not just introducing blazers but by going for a suit in teal blue.

Ideas for the new look that will become part of the dress code for Lavington School from September came from pupils but originally some parents were worried about the cost and quality of the changes which also include a check skirt.

But this week head Sarah Lowkis said that following extensive consultation the vast majority of parents and pupils were fully behind the change. She said: "Less than 10 people originally voiced their concerns. They were a little bit apprehensive. But there has been full parent consultation and a meeting for them to see the uniform. I think this reassured them about quality."

She said that on price it was expected that while the initial outlay would be a bit higher over a longer period it evened out as the blazers would last much longer than the sweat shirts now worn.

Mrs Lowkis said: "I am very pleased with the new uniform. I think it looks very smart. Rather than just having a blazer with black trousers we went for them in the same colour and material as the jacket so it looks more like a suit.

"The check skirt is also very smart and was chosen by the school council and class representatives. All of the clothes are high quality."

She was originally approached by the school council a year ago asking if they could follow other schools in Wiltshire that had opted to ditch sweatshirts and introduce blazers.

Extensive consultation followed and now the school is ready to roll out the new uniform for pupils in years seven, eight and nine in September. It will be optional for those in years 10 and 11.

The whole uniform is expected to cost around £50 per child but money from a hardship fund will pay for blazers for those in need.

Mrs Lowkis is particularly pleased with the new school badge which features a red kite. The birds are part of a breeding programme on Salisbury Plain and are often seen flying over the school.