Parents have been taking to social media to accuse Haygrove School in Somerset of ‘shaming’ girls over its make-up ban. Consequently, many students are punished for their use of makeup products such as mascara and false eyelashes. The newest, three-tiered school building is particularly striking due to the hot patches of red, yellow, and orange colored cladding that punctuate its exterior. It has ignited a vigorous discussion between parents and guardians about the wisdom of the school’s policy.
Parents Jordan and Siobhan are speaking out. Their daughters got in trouble for wearing makeup when that had never been a problem in the past. Jordan’s 15-year-old daughter was reprimanded for wearing mascara, while Siobhan’s daughter faced similar consequences. Each parent contends that the ban is overbroad and undermines their children’s self-esteem.
Siobhan had opened up about this to her head of year, who then arranged for discussion with the school’s headteacher. She explained that her daughter had been going to school made up for two years without any problems. “This is not something they should feel ashamed of and they are feeling ashamed,” Siobhan stated. She explained how some girls put on make-up to combat bullying. She highlighted the importance of educating young boys not to bully girls on their appearance.
A lot of parents worried about the school’s ban might warn that it could backfire. “For some children, the school was their safe place and some of them are now scared to go home because they’re going to get told off by their parents,” Siobhan explained. She suggested that the school needs to not just accommodate those girls, but help all students understand the reasons that led some girls to want to wear make-up. This paradigm would promote empathy rather than stigma.
Jordan shared his perspective on the issue, stating, “I just think it’s ridiculous. I get it, too much make-up isn’t great but a bit of mascara to make her feel a little bit more positive about going to school, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that.” He emphasized how often children experience bullying from their peers based on skin conditions or facial asymmetry. Strict anti-makeup policies only exacerbate this issue.
Haygrove School’s communications officer acknowledged the valid issues that were flagged. Most importantly, they’re listening to student and parent feedback on the new make-up policy. “We will consider all feedback carefully before determining the next steps,” the spokesperson stated. The school looks to nurture an inclusive space where each child knows he or she is important. In this world, creativity reigns and uniqueness is prized over glam and glitz. They recognized that “appearance-based concerns can emerge early and, if unaddressed, may lead to anxiety, poor mental health, and disengagement from learning.”
Though the school continues to support replacing the bikini with a more professional style, it admits that enforcing such a policy could exacerbate harmful beauty standards. Parent and school district dialogue exhibited below indicates a talent-rich community ready to tackle these vital prospects together.
