SIXTH formers have smartened up their act after adopting a new dress code.

Polam Hall School's sixth form, in Darlington, is dropping its casual style and has implemented a "smart dress" code.

Staff said it was to help the pupils wear clothes suitable for a professional, working environment, and to get themselves into the right frame of mind for A-level studies.

Students must not wear jeans, trainers or sportswear.

Headteacher Marie Green said: "We could have chosen to introduce a sixth form uniform. However, Polam is a place where individuals are valued and we wanted to allow students to express their identity.