Kinross Wolaroi unveils first new uniform in more than 45 years, created by former RM Williams designer, Jonathon Ward

Created by prominent Australian designer Jonathon Ward, the school's new look is the first significant change to the uniform since the school took its current form in January 1975 as an amalgamation of the Kinross School (previously PLC Orange) and Wolaroi College.

Mr Ward was previously head designer for RM Williams and has created uniforms for many iconic Australian businesses, as well as independent schools in Australia and overseas.

His sister also attended Kinross Wolaroi.

He was appointed to lead the uniform redesign in 2019, and says he took a 'deep dive' into the school's history to come up with the new uniform, especially the colour palette of sky blue, French navy, green and royal blue, which connected to the PLC and Wolaroi uniforms of past decades.

The new uniform at the day and boarding school has been designed as a trans-seasonal 'wardrobe' that can be adjusted for the weather or individual needs, offering students a range of choices that now included shorts and trousers for all students.

"Today's school uniforms must accommodate all body shapes and provide students with practical choices as they move from childhood through adolescence to young adulthood," said Mr Ward.

Principal Dr Andrew Parry said the brief for the new uniform had been to create a practical, contemporary and consistent look across all of the school's uniforms from Pre-Kinder to Year 12, that would last for at least 20 years.

Perspectives of students, parents, staff and ex-students were considered as part of the review process.

He said the uniform would offer a range of new items for everyday wear, such as a puffer vest and duffle coat, while the 'best dressed' academic uniform would feature a fully braided blazer for Years 3 to 10, and a self-striped blazer for Seniors in Years 11 and 12, each with matching ties and scarves. In a nod to tradition, he said the school would continue to offer a kilt in French navy for Senior Students.

Dr Parry said a significant change was the move away from formality to a play-based uniform for the youngest students in Pre-Kinder to Year 2, to accommodate their developmental needs as well as offer freedom of movement.

The uniform will have a two-year phase-in period to give families flexibility in transitioning to the new uniform.

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