What are the best shoes for secondary school students?
Best Shoes for Secondary School Students
The best shoes for secondary school students should be:
- Plain black formal shoes
- Made of full leather or leather substitutes that can be polished
- Formal in style and appropriate for a business environment
- Free from obvious branding, coloured stitching, logos, or reflective areas
- With flat or minimal heels (no more than one inch)
Not Permitted
The following types of footwear are not acceptable for school:
- Trainers or sports brand shoes (including Converse and Vans)
- Plimsolls or pumps
- Canvas footwear
- Suede shoes
- Shoes with coloured badges, laces, bands or stripes
- High heels or wedges
- Open-toe shoes
- Boots (for Years 7-11)
Buying Advice
When purchasing school shoes:
- Look for traditional formal styles that can be polished
- Ensure they're comfortable for all-day wear
- Choose durable materials that will last throughout the school year
- If in doubt about a particular style, check with the school before purchasing
For sixth form students (Years 12-13), close-fitting Chelsea boot styles are acceptable as long as they are plain black and can be polished.
If you're uncertain about whether a particular shoe style meets requirements, it's best to contact the school's Senior Leadership Team or Heads of Year before making a purchase.
