North East schools encouraged to change to active uniforms

What is an always active uniform?

An always active uniform reduces the barriers to children running, jumping, rolling, climbing, exploring and moving in as many ways as possible as much as possible. Always active uniforms are made from darker colours and breathable comfortable fabrics. They are not restrictive around the neck and have a loose cut to enable free movement. They are robust, easy to clean and cheap to replace. 

Office-style shoes are inappropriate for the range of activities a primary-aged child should be experiencing in exploring the world. An always active uniform policy should promote suitable footwear, such as trainers and wellies, to support safe-enough play in all conditions.

Find out more about always active uniforms.

The benefits of always active uniforms

Schools with always active uniforms report significant increases in physical activity across all student groups, enhanced classroom engagement and – notably – a marked improvement in children’s confidence to participate in active play. The impact on girls’ participation has been particularly significant, with many schools noting a dramatic increase in their engagement with physical activities once restrictive clothing barriers are removed.

Grimes Dyke Primary School in Leeds introduced active uniforms in September 2021. Headteacher Louise Hill told the Active Uniform Alliance: 

“The children and staff are far happier! We made it clear to staff that they had the same freedoms as the children and, if I expect them to be outside, they can dress for the outdoors. I’m often in a pair of jeans and trainers to model this to staff. The curriculum is much more flexible allowing teachers to plan active lessons as well as in the moment activities without worrying about children in skirts and school shoes.”

Find out more about always active uniforms at Grimes Dyke.

Sign the active uniform pledge 

We’re calling on schools across the North East to sign the active uniform pledge and commit to changing to an always active uniform within two years. Schools that sign the pledge will also be at the forefront of a shift toward creating a new normal, where primary school children are expected to be actively playing and learning all day.

Sign the active uniform pledge today.

The Made to Move campaign is coordinated by the Active Uniform Alliance — a group of people and organisations from all around the UK who share the common goal of ensuring all primary school children are dressed in clothing that helps them always be active. OPAL CIC is a founding member of the alliance and OPAL North East is proud to support the campaign. 

*Survey of 2,022 UK adults, carried out between 9th May and 14th May, commissioned by OPAL and the Active Uniform Alliance.