NEW uniforms for two academies set to open in Yate and Winterbourne have been revealed.

The formal uniforms will be adopted by pupils at The Ridings’ Federation of Academies, when The Ridings High School and King Edmund Community School reopen as independent academies in September.

The dress code for pupils at each academy will be identical, except for a logo to separate the Yate and Winterbourne sites.

Mike Hayward, chairman of The Ridings’ Federation of Academies, said: "Following significant research and consultation, the new academy badges have been designed to ensure each academy is identified with The Ridings’ Federation, their individual community and their original school.

"This will ensure an overall identity for the federation while recognising the importance of each academy within their individual communities." The new uniform will consist of a navy blazer, a navy and gold striped badge, white shirt and grey trousers or skirt.

Both uniforms will feature a shield, with a federation logo of a key, to symbolise guardianship and power of authority, a book representing expression and an ink pen to show the art of learning.

The emblem for The Ridings’ Federation Yate International Academy will also feature a lion, used in King Edmunds’ current logo. Oak leaves will also feature on the uniform, which appear in the Yate Coat of Arms and originally in the stained glass window at St Mary’s Church, which was ravaged by Cromwell.

The emblem for The Ridings’ Federation Winterbourne International Academy will feature the school’s existing symbol of a rose, and an ear of wheat. Winterbourne was noted for its wheat and barley farms during the reign of Henry III.

Added Mr Hayward: "The Ridings’ Federation of Academies Trust is delighted with the new uniform and badges for both academies and the federation.

"We hope that all students will be proud to wear the uniform associated with their new academy and all that it represents."

Parents of pupils in Years 8 to 11 will be offered financial assistance to buy key pieces of the new uniforms.

Both academies are set to open on September 1 under a Pathfinder programme set up by the government. The Ridings High School will act as the lead school to help improve results at King Edmunds.