Women’s Policy Group NI calls for urgent action to guarantee every pupil the right to wear trousers in school
19 February 2026 - The Women’s Policy Group Northern Ireland (WPG) has submitted a response to the Bill on the right to choose to wear trousers in school.
The WPG submission highlights that women and girls wearing trousers is entirely commonplace in all other areas of life, and argues that it is incomprehensible that this is still not standard practice in every school across Northern Ireland. The group stresses that forcing girls to wear skirts is a form of gender‑based discrimination that can negatively impact comfort, safety, participation and dignity in school life.
Drawing on previous research and consultation responses, the WPG emphasises:
School uniform policies must prioritise student comfort and agency
Uniform options should never be gendered, with all pupils—of any gender identity—able to choose from a full range of clothing options.
Young people themselves have overwhelmingly supported this change during previous Department of Education consultations.
Allowing trousers for all pupils would also support period dignity, help girls feel safer and less exposed, and enable full participation in school activities.
Financial impacts, the group argues, should not be considered a barrier: trousers are often more affordable than skirts, and gender‑neutral options could make it easier for families to reuse uniforms across siblings.
- ENDS -
For further information, please contact:
Elaine Crory, Women’s Sector Lobbyist, WRDA – elaine.crory@wrda.net
Meghan Hoyt, Policy Assistant, WRDA – meghan.hoyt@wrda.net