Whitefriars Primary School, which became part of the Tove Learning Trust in December 2024, welcomed pupils back with a significant change: the introduction of the new Everyday Activewear Uniform. As the first school in East Northamptonshire to embrace this innovative approach, Whitefriars has replaced its traditional uniform with a modern, movement-friendly alternative designed to support active learning throughout the school day.
The idea for the new uniform originated from parental feedback requesting that children be allowed to wear their PE kits on PE days. As a school that values active, adventurous outdoor learning and holds a Platinum Sports Award, Whitefriars conducted a full consultation with families to develop a uniform that aligns with its ethos.
Led by the School Council, the Everyday Activewear Uniform was proposed as a flexible, comfortable, and practical option that enables children to move, play, and learn freely. An impressive 90% of parents responded positively to this change.
Research focused on ensuring that the uniform remains smart, affordable, and compliant with national guidelines regarding affordability and minimal branding.
Headteacher Lucy Burman stated, “It was wonderful to see nearly all our children wearing the new activewear uniform today. There is a real buzz and excitement among the pupils. The feedback from parents has been extremely overwhelming. The new uniform provides a seamless transition from the classroom to the playground and into PE lessons, significantly reducing transition time. Streamlining the wardrobe into multi-use items helps to keep costs down while supporting our commitment to active learning.”
The launch of the new uniform aligns with the national momentum created by initiatives like the Youth Sport Trust’s Always Active Uniform campaign, which encourages schools to incorporate movement into everyday learning.
The new branded navy tracksuit, shorts, and T-shirt have been designed with inclusivity in mind. They are made from breathable, durable, and sensory-friendly fabrics that allow children to climb, run, explore, and learn without restriction, all perfectly supporting Whitefriars’ adventurous curriculum, which includes den building, outdoor challenges, and active exploration.
Jamie Clarke OBE, CEO of Tove Learning Trust, stated: “Joining Tove Learning Trust has always been about fostering environments where children can truly thrive, and Whitefriars' new Everyday Activewear Uniform is an outstanding example of that vision in action. By putting movement, comfort, and affordability at the heart of the school day, this pioneering approach empowers the pupils to learn without limits while setting a brilliant benchmark for active education across the region.”
Whitefriars warmly welcomes families who would like to visit the school and see the new uniform in action.
Join us for a school tour!
We have scheduled tours on the following dates:
- Monday, 19th October, 10am - 11am
- Thursday, 5th November, 1:30pm to 2:30pm
- Wednesday, 16th November, 10am to 11am
If you are unable to attend any of these dates, please contact the school to arrange an alternative tour time. To book a tour, please email: jmarks@whitefriarsprimary.co.uk or call: 01933 359269.
Visit us at: www.whitefriarsprimary.co.uk.
Roots to grow and wings to fly.
