New research from the Active Uniform Alliance shows widespread support from the public for UK schools to change their policies and adopt an ‘always-active’ uniform¹.

The Alliance, founded by Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) CIC, the Youth Sport Trust, Play England, the Centre for Young Lives, Play Scotland and Learning through Landscapes, claims traditional uniforms restrict movement, limit opportunities for active play, and don’t reflect the needs of modern learning environments.

The data shows that 81% of people believe being physically active during the school day helps improve children’s mood, focus, and overall wellbeing. Plus, nearly 3 in 4 (72%) say an ‘always-active’ uniform is more appropriate than a smart office-style one – which over 2 in 5 (44%) agree limits pupils’ play and 56% feel places too much emphasis on appearance¹.

This is further backed up by polls of parents and teachers by Active Uniform Alliance founding partner, the Youth Sport Trust. 77% of parents would like their children to wear a uniform that allows them to be active throughout the school day, and two-thirds (67%) of primary school teachers would like to see their school adopt an ‘always active’ uniform policy².

The top three changes the public would make to school uniforms are¹:

●      Using breathable materials for all weather conditions

●      Allowing trainers and more comfortable footwear

●      Swapping blazers and ties for more casual alternatives

There are also concerns around how current uniforms particularly impact young girls. More than 2 in 5 (43%) survey respondents say uniform policies make it harder for girls to be active than boys, and 6 in 10 (58%) agree that skirts and dresses can discourage them from taking part in physical activity – with only 15% stating it has no effect in their opinion¹.

The AUA’s Made to Move campaign, launching on 2 June, is calling for all primary schools to introduce ‘always-active uniforms’ that encourage full physical activity, are comfortable, and meet the needs of children.

Schools will make a pledge on the campaign website to adopt an always-active within two years of signing: www.activeuniform.org

The Youth Sport Trust is encouraging schools to trial this forward-thinking policy as part of National School Sports Week 2025, powered by Sports Direct x Under Armour, to support children in reaching the UK Chief Medical Officers’ recommendation of 60 active minutes a day. Schools, families and organisations who sign up will gain access to free resources, exclusive activity packs, and the chance to win exciting prizes.

Sign up today here.