Ethical School Uniforms - Threads of Change

Revolutionising School Uniforms: The Story Behind Ethical Schoolwear

When we think of school uniforms, we often focus on tradition, practicality, and affordability. But how often do we consider where they come from, how they’re made, and their impact on both people and the planet? Liam Charton Killen, founder of Ethical Schoolwear, is on a mission to change that conversation.

From Concerned Parent to Ethical Entrepreneur

Liam’s journey into ethical schoolwear started out of curiosity and concern. While living in Manchester, he noticed the stark contrast between the luxury cars parked outside a major clothing retailer’s office and the disturbing reports of sweatshops and unethical labour practices linked to the fashion industry. At the same time, his son had just started school, and Liam decided to ask their uniform supplier about its ethical sourcing policies. The lack of response raised red flags, sparking his quest to find a better alternative.

During his research, he discovered Rowlinson Knitwear, a UK-based, employee-owned school uniform manufacturer that prioritized sustainability, ethical labor practices, and fair wages. Their transparency and dedication to profit-for-good resonated with him. However, Rowlinson only supplied retailers, not schools directly. That’s when Liam saw an opportunity to bring ethical school uniforms to families who cared about the impact of their purchases.

The Birth of Ethical Schoolwear

After relocating to Northern Ireland for a better quality of life for his family—particularly for his daughter, who has chronic lung disease—Liam revisited the idea of ethical school uniforms. When his son started school in Crossgar, he approached the principal about offering a more ethical uniform alternative. With their approval, he launched Ethical Schoolwear as a Shopify store, initially supplying just one school.

Word spread quickly. Parents appreciated not just the ethical sourcing but also the durability and comfort of the uniforms. Over time, demand grew, and within three years, Ethical Schoolwear expanded to serve multiple schools, nurseries, and families across Northern Ireland and beyond.

What Makes Ethical Schoolwear Different?

Liam’s business is built on trust, transparency, and sustainability. Unlike many large retailers who claim ethical standards without third-party verification, Ethical Schoolwear’s supplier holds some of the most rigorous certifications in the industry, including:

• B Corp Certification – Recognizing businesses that meet high social and environmental performance standards.

• Planet Mark Certification – Measuring and reducing carbon footprints.

• Living Wage Employer – Ensuring fair wages for workers.

• Ethical Trading Initiative Certification – Committing to fair labor practices.

But it’s not just about accreditation. Ethical Schoolwear focuses on longevity. The uniforms are designed to last longer, retain color, and stay soft even after multiple washes—making them ideal for passing down to younger siblings or donating to school uniform swaps.

Encouraging a Circular Economy in School Uniforms

Sustainability isn’t just about better manufacturing; it’s also about reducing waste. Liam actively encourages parents to reuse and recycle uniforms. Each of his email newsletters reminds families to check second-hand uniform options before buying new. If parents still need additional items, then Ethical Schoolwear is there to provide an ethical alternative.

Additionally, for every uniform purchase, Ethical Schoolwear plants a tree. While the project started on Liam’s own land in County Down, he’s now looking at larger-scale reforestation initiatives to continue growing the impact. This initiative not only offsets carbon footprints but also teaches children that their choices make a tangible difference for the planet.

Challenges in the School Uniform Industry

One of the biggest hurdles Ethical Schoolwear faces is breaking into schools. Many schools have long-standing contracts with single uniform providers, limiting competition and keeping parents locked into purchasing from the same supplier year after year.

However, change is on the horizon. Schools in England are now required to offer multiple uniform suppliers to encourage competition and reduce costs. In Northern Ireland, the Education Authority sends annual reminders to schools about adopting a similar approach. If legislation follows suit, Ethical Schoolwear stands ready to provide a sustainable, affordable alternative.

Another challenge is the rising cost of school uniforms, which has become a major talking point in the UK and Ireland. A new law currently under debate would require schools to justify uniform costs, ensuring that parents aren’t overburdened by unnecessary branding or expensive PE kits.

The Future of Ethical Schoolwear

Liam’s vision goes beyond school uniforms. He’s recently expanded to offer ethical adult clothing, including t-shirts, fleeces, and hoodies—all made with the same sustainable and ethical standards. This move not only broadens his business but also ensures year-round activity, as school uniform sales are highly seasonal.

Additionally, Ethical Schoolwear is exploring ways to help schools make informed decisions about their uniforms, encouraging them to move away from elaborate, bespoke designs that drive up costs and limit competition.

Supporting the Ethical Choice

For parents who want to make a more ethical choice for their children’s schoolwear, Liam recommends starting with conversations. Ask your school about their uniform suppliers. If they only have one, suggest introducing competition. Share Ethical Schoolwear’s impact report (available on their website) with school decision-makers.

For those looking to purchase ethical uniforms, Ethical Schoolwear offers a straightforward process through their website, EthicalSchoolwear.co.uk. Parents can also reach out directly to discuss opportunities for their school.

Conclusion: Making a Difference, One Uniform at a Time

Ethical Schoolwear isn’t just about selling uniforms—it’s about redefining an industry. By prioritising fair wages, environmental responsibility, and quality products, Liam Charton Killen has built a business that offers parents an alternative they can feel good about.

As the demand for conscious consumerism grows, businesses like Ethical Schoolwear prove that we can make ethical choices in every aspect of our lives—including what our children wear to school.

Want to support the movement? Visit EthicalSchoolwear.co.uk to learn more, or share this story with your school to spark change.