Parents call for GPS tags in school uniforms

"Seriously considering incorporating a device into future ranges"

21 August 2007 8:47 GMT / By Amy-Mae Elliott

Schoolwear could soon see a twenty-first century tech makeover.

According to a new survey conducted by schoolwear supplier, Trutex, parents want to see GPS tracking devices incorporated into school uniforms.

Safety conscious parents, faced with constant worry about child safety, are interested in tagging and tracking their children.

Research shows that 44% are concerned about the safety of their pre-teen children and 59% would be interested in some form of tracking device being incorporated in to school uniforms.

School children that participated in the survey apparently showed a "keen interest" in having a tracking device incorporated into their school uniforms, well 38% of 9- to 12-year-olds did.

Not surprisingly, children aged over 13 were less keen on their parents knowing their exact whereabouts arguing that it would be more suitable for younger children and that they do not want parents spying on them.

Commenting on the survey results, Clare Rix, Trutex marketing director said:

"As a direct result of the survey, we are now seriously considering incorporating a device into future ranges."

"As well as being a safety net for parents, there could be real benefits for schools who could keep a closer track on the whereabouts of their pupils, potentially reducing truancy levels."

Full tags

Dad, Clothing, GPS, RFID