MAIDENHILL students returned to school with a smart new uniform that has won the praise of Stonehouse residents.

On Tuesday, September 6, pupils returned for the autumn term in a black blazer adorned with an embroidered red rose and a red tie with diagonal black stripes.

The uniform also includes a crisp white shirt that can be teamed either with black trousers or skirt.

Consultations took place from September last year and most parents and pupils agreed that a new look was needed to distinguish Maidenhill students from those at Park Junior School.

Miadenhill’s former royal blue crew neck sweatshirt teamed with white polo shirt and black trousers or skirt is very similar to the outfit worn at the nearby Park Junior.

Following the new look residents have been contacting the school to express their admiration for the smart uniform.

Headteacher Gary Watson said it was symbolic of the school’s success following record GCSE results in the summer.

"I am delighted with the support received from parents who have invested in new clothes for their youngsters at a difficult time in the economic cycle," said Mr Watson. Meanwhile Mr Watson is looking forward to investing £3.6m of Gloucestershire County Council funding into improving the school’s rundown façade.

The cash will also buy energy efficient windows and a new heating system.

"A combination of new investment, improving results and a new uniform means the school is well placed to continue to progress at speed in the future," said Mr Watson.