It is so true that a school will be judged by the way the students present themselves. I personally have a huge issue with DD's school and the lack of acceptable (to me - and the majority of parents) dress guidelines.

However, my DD is in a great group of friends and is very academic. The school she attends received the same op levels as Rockhampton Grammar School and St Margarets in Brisbane... So....

A school is and will be judged by the way they present to the outside world.

Having said all of that. The younger kids school do not have a uniform (except for excursions they have a polo shirt with the school logo) barefeet are encouraged for play - and it's colourful due to the different self expression from all the different kids!

So, I do know that some in our town call it the "hippy school" or the barefoot hippy school... And I guess it is. But I know how amazing it is. I also have to say that the kids are incredibly respectful.

I guess what I am saying is that whilst we do judge on appearances sometimes they are not what they seem???