Most schools with a uniform requirement (especially in the UK or at prestigious private grammar schools) adhere to the rule that skirts should be knee-length or slightly above.
Rule of thumb: A common guideline states that skirts should not be shorter than a hand’s width above the knee.Reason: This length looks elegant and professional and minimizes the effort required for teachers to constantly address “infractions.”
The Practical Aspect
School isn’t just about sitting at a desk. Students move around on stairs, take the bus, or sit in a relaxed atmosphere during breaks.
A-line or pleated skirts: These are significantly more practical than tight skirts, as they offer greater freedom of movement.
Comfort: A skirt that is too short forces students to constantly check their height, which is distracting from their studies. Conversely, a skirt that is too long (below the calves) can be impractical in the rain or when walking quickly.
Psychological and social aspects: School uniforms are meant to level the playing field, but skirt length is often the first point at which students try to distinguish themselves and express their individuality.