Schools relax rules on student uniforms as hot, humid weather persists

At Raffles Girls’ Primary School, students have been told that they do not have to put on their pinafore after PE lessons if they feel it is too warm to do so. 

Some have chosen to do so but many still wear their pinafores, a student’s parent told CNA. Students who do not have PE that day have to continue wearing their pinafores. 

Methodist Girls’ School is also allowing its students to wear their PE uniforms instead of full uniforms. 

At St Joseph’s Institution, students are allowed to wear the official half uniform on all school days except on Mondays, when students are required to wear the full uniform with a tie, said a spokesperson for the school.

The half uniform comprises the school’s polo shirt paired with the school’s shorts, skirt or pants. 

This measure was implemented some years ago, the spokesperson said. 

HEAT GUIDELINES IN PLACE: MOE

Schools have guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff in hot weather, the Ministry of Education (MOE) said in response to questions from CNA. 

These include minimising outdoor physical activities between 10.30am and 3.30pm, when temperatures and ultraviolet levels are generally higher. 

“Schools may also explore ways to help students better manage the heat, such as allowing students to dress in PE attire or their school T-shirt, depending on their specific needs,” the ministry said. 

Students are encouraged to stay hydrated before, during and after physical activities to prevent and alleviate exercise-induced heat strain, it added. 

“MOE and schools will continue to monitor the heat situation and students and staff’s well-being closely, especially those who may be more vulnerable to the effects of higher temperature conditions.”