Traditional school uniforms may be hindering children's physical activity and comfort, according to an expert.

Prof Helen Dodd, a child psychology expert at the University of Exeter Medical School, is calling for a rethink of school dress codes to better support children's wellbeing and development.

Prof Dodd told BBC Radio Devon: "We complain that children aren't active enough, but then we dress them in clothes that make it hard to run, climb or play."

The Department for Education said it was limiting the number of branded uniform items schools required to "help break the link between background and success".

'Girls restricted'

Prof Dodd said: "There are countries where children wear a kind of tracksuit uniform.

"Everyone still looks smart and cohesive, but it's much more comfortable and suitable for physical activity."

She pointed to changes made during the pandemic, when many schools allowed children to wear their PE kits all day.

"I've seen it with my own kids, when they're in their PE kits, they're just more comfortable.

"After school, they can go straight to the park and climb trees or swing without being restricted."

The issue was particularly significant for girls, she said.

"Girls' uniforms, especially in summer, often include skirts and impractical shoes," she said.

"These aren't designed for running around on a field.

"Uniforms can unintentionally widen the gap in physical activity between boys and girls."

Uniform benefits 'minimal'

Prof Dodd also challenged beliefs that formal uniforms improve academic performance.

"The evidence shows that uniforms make little to no difference in terms of concentration or achievement," she said.

"Even when it comes to behaviour, the benefits are minimal and can come at the cost of the teacher-student relationship due to constant uniform policing."

She was speaking after a survey by the Active Uniform Alliance suggested that 77% of parents and 67% of teachers supported a shift toward uniforms that encourage physical activity.

She acknowledged that cultural perceptions remain a barrier.

"There's still this idea that a smart uniform reflects a good school,"

"But some schools have already made the change, and nothing terrible has happened."

A Department for Education spokesperson said: "Our Plan for Change is cutting the cost of sending children to school, with our Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill limiting the number of branded uniform items schools can require, which alongside free breakfast clubs could put up to £500 a year back into working parents' pockets and help break the link between background and success."