Kilts are more commonly associated with Scotland but one Sittingbourne school is hoping to introduce tartan to its uniform.

Highsted Grammar is asking parents whether the uniform should change from a grey straight skirt and jumper to a blue and white kilted version and a navy pullover.

This would affect the new intake of Year 7s from September, with those in Years 8 to 10 being given a skirt free of charge from the Highsted Road school.

They would only be required to buy the new uniform as the old uniform breaks or wears out.

Highsted's uniform is available from Forster's School Outfitters in East Street, Sittingbourne.

The school says it is consulting with parents but the kilts are already on sale online with retailer Simmonds.

The website says the new skirts would cost £24.95 compared to the straight grey skirts which currently cost £20.95.

At the moment, pupils can wear either a grey jumper or a grey cardigan, sold for £16.95 and £22.95, but the compulsory new navy jumper will cost £21.95.

The consultation gives parents an option to vote to keep the
current dress code, replace it with the suggested changes or change the colour of the jumpers to grey.

In a letter to parents, head teacher Anne Kelly said: “At Highsted Grammar School we pride ourselves on each and every one of our students being easily recognised as part of our elite community, through our school uniform.

“We have however, decided it is now the right time to make some changes going forward and would very much value your opinion. Mindful of value for money, we have selected items many of which retail at lower prices with better quality."

“If adopted, any changes to the uniform will be rolled out starting with the Year 7 intake from September 2017.”

There was a positive reaction on Facebook.

Kelly McCarthy said: “I think it’s smart and a good idea but I’m just a bit worried of the cost.”

Karen French Lungley agreed: “Great idea, it looks really smart.”

Another comment referred to the kilts being “a lot smarter than some of the inappropriate length grey skirts some wear”.

The school was approached for comment but declined. It is not known why kilts have been chosen.

The consultation ends on Friday.