Are end of school proms a good idea? Sheffield residents share their thoughts
Prom season is approaching but do locals in Sheffield think it’s a good idea?
The end of term time is fast approaching and for many students in Year 11 and Year 13 that means that preparations for prom day are well underway.
Like Halloween, Proms are one of a number of US traditions that have made their way into the UK in recent decades.
They are designed to be a celebration of students' achievements throughout their time at school and a chance for people to have a fancy meal and a dance with their classmates before moving on to pastures new.
Males often dress in suits to mark the occasion while females wear dresses or evening gowns. Some celebrate the occasion by taking a prom date with them while others choose to simply enjoy the evening with friends.
But do the people of Sheffield think proms are a good idea? We asked our readers to share their thoughts on the occasion and this is how they responded.
Sandra Waterhouse voiced her support for proms but claimed she disagreed with some of the rules schools put in place to decide which pupils attend. She said: “Yes I do. I don’t agree with schools using attendance and attainment through students to secure a place. It should be available to all.”
Jen Hercock agreed, adding: “Events should be available to all and not used as a weapon against kids and their attendance.”
Amanda Jarvis-Green likes the idea of proms but believes they should only be used in secondary schools. She said: “When leaving high school yes, but these days they have them for infants and juniors which is way over the top.”
KL Jones agreed, commenting: “Yes for 16 and 18 but not for infants and primary schools.”
Teresa Barker said: “The kids love them, so why not?”
Cheryl Eales added: “Yes my grandkids have loved their prom. I wish I had the chance to do it with my children.”
However, others argued that the tradition of proms should have remained in the US.
Martin Else said: “I’m not keen on the fact that we’ve adopted the word prom. But at the end of the day it’s just a leavers party. When I left school we had a disco which incorporated ball room dancing.
Jane Shirt added: “No, it’s another American idea that’s got out of hand. Halloween is getting the same.”
Neil Karen Proctor said: “No, it’s an Americanism that’s crept in.”
Others expressed concerns about the prices of proms. Many parents find it extremely difficult to afford suits and dresses for their sons and daughters.
Anne Bernice Whitaker said: “No, another crazy American thing that costs parents a fortune.”
Jonathan Buckle said: “To make it more competitive and less expensive for parents, why not insist that the youngsters buy their outfits from charity shops. The added advantage is that it would support a good cause.”
Wynn Nixon said: “No, too much pressure on the purse strings.”
Alicia Station added: “No, too expensive for many families.”
Barbara King said: “It’s far too expensive, not everyone can afford it.”