School, Self-Expression and Piercings

Why self expression should always win. Schools often frame restrictions on appearance as preparation for “the real world”. Uniforms, hair rules, jewellery limits. The intention is order and equality. The outcome is often conformity at the expense of self-expression.

Piercings sit right in the middle of that tension. Northern Ireland is undergoing an overhall in the way school uniforms are legislated, with maximum cost, supermarket alternatives and branded sports apparel all under scrutiny. The debate has also started on acceptable haircuts, trousers for girls, makeup and jewellery rules, with engagement from parents currently being sought.

I firmly believe that individuality should always be supported. Self-expression isn’t a distraction from learning. It’s part of learning who you are. When young people are trusted to make choices about their appearance, they learn ownership, responsibility, and confidence.

The argument that piercings undermine discipline or focus doesn’t hold much weight. A stud in an ear doesn’t change a student’s ability to think, learn, or behave. It simply challenges an outdated idea of what “acceptable” looks like.

There is room for safety, practicality, and compromise without erasing individuality entirely. The education system doesn’t need more uniformity. It needs more understanding.

Teaching young people that their identity must be hidden to be accepted sends a message far beyond school gates. It’s not one I agree with.