MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
As Kingswood College approaches its 140th year, we have an opportunity to reflect on the traditions that have shaped us and the future we are building together.
Throughout our history, Kingswood has evolved thoughtfully in response to the needs of the students and families we serve. The introduction of activewear Kingswear was one such moment. It represented a bold departure from traditional school uniforms and reflected our commitment to comfort, inclusivity and student wellbeing.
Today, activewear remains a defining feature of our College.
The introduction of formal Kingswear continues this tradition of thoughtful evolution.
These new options have been designed to provide students with attire for occasions when they represent the College, while remaining true to the values that have always guided us.
As we move towards our 140th year, we are proud to share this next chapter with our community.
Chrissy Gamble Principal
DESIGNED FOR TODAY’S KINGSWOOD
Formal Kingswear has been created with one purpose:
To provide students with attire that reflects the pride, belonging and excellence of our College while remaining comfortable, practical and inclusive.
The collection has been designed to:
• Support students across a range of body types and identities
• Prioritise comfort and functionality
• Reflect contemporary student needs
• Complement existing Kingswear activewear
• Create a strong sense of connection and belonging.
Like all aspects of Kingswood College, these designs seek to balance tradition with innovation.
A NATURAL EVOLUTION
The Kingswood story is one of thoughtful progress.
Many of the traditions we value today were once new ideas.
Our activewear model transformed the way students experienced school dress and has become one of the most distinctive aspects of the Kingswood experience.
Formal Kingswear represents the next stage of that journey.
It is not a return to the past.
It is an expression of who we are today.
A contemporary collection designed for a contemporary community.
KINGSWOOD SCHOOL UNIFORM HISTORY
The earliest uniforms were modest and utilitarian, in line with the late 19th-century private boys’ school standards.
The colour scheme in these early years reflected the school’s crests: blue and white were primary colours, seen in school caps and ribbons.
Summer uniform in the 1960’s included white collars, formal jackets and straw hats.
The uniforms become more practical— short-sleeved shirts, slacks for girls, polo shirts for sports.
Students were expected to bring: “One best suit, two school suits, one straw hat and school ribbon, one school cap...,” as listed in the 1904 prospectus.
Uniforms played a symbolic role in fostering unity and family atmosphere, especially important for boarders who lived far from home. The idea was to “treat boarders as members of the family” and the clothing structure helped reinforce this ethos.
Blazers and ties remain for formal occasions, with modern tailoring and embroidered insignias.
Formal uniform becomes more conservative overtime.
Introduced in 2021, Kingswear activewear reflected a commitment to student wellbeing, inclusion, and agency.
LOOKING AHEAD
From 2027, formal Kingswear options will become available to students.
Activewear Kingswear will continue as the everyday foundation of student dress.
As we move towards our 140th year in 2030, formal Kingswear will play an increasingly important role in celebrations, ceremonies and occasions where students represent the College. Importantly, this journey will continue to be shaped by the voices of our students, families and staff.
Because Kingswood has always been strongest when its future is built together.
140 YEARS OF BELONGING
For almost 140 years, Kingswood College has nurtured generations of students to lead lives of purpose, courage and contribution.
This new chapter honours that legacy while looking confidently towards the future.