ONE of Bolton's most popular secondary schools is hoping to solve the problem of girls wearing inappropriate skirts “once and for all”.

Turton School, an Ofsted rated good school, is introducing a standard issue skirt of “decent length” from September.

Staff say they are "wasting" mornings dealing with some girls wearing inappropriate skirts, including being too short, for school.

The school has consulted with a number of girls on the style and length of the new skirt say it has received positive feedback.

Headteacher Sam Gorse said: “In the past, Turton has received some criticism for its student uniform, with comments relating to students being casual or too scruffy.

“In more recent years, we have avidly addressed this by insisting on a high standard of uniform and ensuring that Turton students wear their uniform with pride. Now, when visitors come to Turton, including Ofsted, they frequently comment on how smart the pupils look.

“Throughout this drive to raise standards, we have held true to the value of keeping the uniform costs as low as possible for parents, by keeping the uniform simply and readily available in a wide range of shops.

“Despite all this, the one aspect of uniform that we are unable to consistently maintain a high standard in is skirts.

“We waste many mornings dealing with girls who wear inappropriate skirts, which not only lower the standards, but also can cause indignity at times.

“In an attempt to solve this problem, once and for all, we are introducing a standard issue skirt from September 2020. The skirt is produced by our local uniform manufacturers, and is pleated, navy blue, of a decent length and contains the school logo.”

Girls in Years seven to 10 will wear the new skirt in the new academic year, and students in Year 11 will be allowed to wear the current black skirt.

Ms Gorse added that the new skirt is “well within” the average price. Girls can still wear trousers if they wish.

Studies have shown that looking and feeling smart can have a positive impact on standards. And people have been generally positive about the move.

One person said: “I think this skirt is a great idea.

"Hopefully having the logo on will stop them rolling their skirts up.”

Another described the new look as "lovely".