Schoolchildren told to wear tracksuits rather than uniform in new 'inclusivity' drive

MPs have called for schoolchildren to wear tracksuits and trainers in classrooms across the country. A Commons Culture, Media and Sport committee report published on Monday told schools to adopt "sportswear-friendly" uniform policies. The cross-party group argued such changes would make uniforms more "inclusive" and remove obstacles to physical activity. The committee's report, titled Game On, suggested current PE kit requirements create engagement problems for pupils. Allowing children to wear comfortable clothing throughout the day would help them move more freely, the MPs say. The report said boys typically view PE lessons as exciting, while girls more often find them embarrassing or stressful. Inclusive Sportswear, an organisation cited in the report, described girls' PE kits as "mandatory over-sexualised uniforms" that offered a "lack of choice and comfort". "We recommend that the Government issue guidance making clear that schools are expected to adopt PE kit and uniform policies that prioritise comfort, inclusivity and dignity, particularly for girls and pupils with protected characteristics," the report says. These measures would reduce barriers to activity, cut costs for families and boost participation rates, especially among female students, according to the report. The committee also advocated for a more diverse PE curriculum, suggesting schools incorporate non-traditional activities such as skateboarding, roller skating, cheerleading and parkour. LATEST FROM BRITAIN'S CLASSROOMS: Mobile phones will be BANNED by law in England's schools to 'put children’s interests first' 'Brainwashed by Brussels!' British schools forced to fly EU flag under Labour's Erasmus scheme School sparks furious backlash after banning jumpers until October - 'Dictatorial!' Evidence presented to MPs indicated that a narrow, conventional approach to physical education can leave less confident pupils, particularly girls and those with special educational needs, feeling left out. Dame Caroline Dinenage, the committee's chairwoman, said: "We're a country of sport lovers when it comes to supporting our stars at home and abroad, but there are too many barriers stopping people from getting up and giving it a go themselves at school and clubs in our communities." She added: "Everyone deserves the chance to feel the upsides of being more active." The call follows a GB News audit revealed that one in eight schools in England allow at least one item of sportswear - joggers, leggings or hoodies - as part of their standard daily uniform. One school audited even permits all three items - a full tracksuit as a uniform. One in four primary schools were found to allow trainers daily, with this figure increasing to nearly one in three in the east and south east of England. Esther McVey, MP for Tatton, told GB News it was "sad" that school uniforms are "being dumbed down", emphasising the importance of smartness. She said: "Smart uniforms are extremely important in schools, and it is sad to see them being dumbed down in so many." She went further to make the connection between a lack of smart standards in the classroom to the casualisation of workwear. "Sadly it mirrors the lack of smart attire in many offices and workplaces currently, but I am sure most parents would like to see schools pursue a uniform policy which maintains traditional high standards," she said. A Department for Education spokesman said: "School leaders are responsible for deciding whether to have a school uniform and what it should be, but our guidance is clear that schools should engage with parents and pupils when designing their uniform policy and should consider how comfortable the proposed uniform will be for pupils. "We know that too many young people remain inactive, which is why our new PE and School Sport Partnerships will target the barriers that hold children back, ensuring more opportunities for those who are less active including girls, pupils from less affluent backgrounds, those from ethnically diverse communities and pupils with Send." Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter

Go to News Site