Pupils at the Marsh Academy have been given permission to wear PE kit to lessons as the heatwave continues across the county.

Shaun Simmons, principal at the New Romney school, decided to take the unusual step after authorities issued a heat-health alert for much of the south of England.

Forecasts predict temperatures during the current hot spell will peak early next week, with highs in excess of 30C (86F) expected in inland parts of the Marsh on Tuesday.

Mr Simmons said: "At the Marsh we strongly believe that school uniform is an important part of our students' identity and wearing it smartly to school is very important.

"However, given the local weather warnings and speaking to our staff, students and community, I felt it was sensible to give students the option of wearing full uniform, without the traditional blazer, or Marsh Academy PE kit, during this period.

"I feel this is the right balance between looking smart and being comfortable."

The policy at the Marsh Academy contrasts with the approach at some other schools, where uniform codes have been enforced despite the soaring temperatures.

One Year 8 pupil from Westlands School in Sittingbourne turned up in shorts and was put in isolation as punishment.

His father said: "There is a blanket ban on shorts but there is no air-conditioning in the classrooms and the pupils are roasting in 30C heat.

"At least the girls can wear skirts. I read that in another school all the boys ended up wearing skirts as that was the only way they could keep cool and follow the dress code."

The heatwave, which is expected to ease towards the end of next week, also poses a threat to the environment as the dry spell increases the risk of fire.

Four fire engines were sent to Galloways Road in Lydd on Tuesday after reports of hedges and grass on fire.

Crews extinguished the flames using hose reel jets, main jets and a fogging unit.

No injuries were reported and the cause has not yet been confirmed.

Most grass fires happen between May and September when the ground can get very dry, which can cause flames to spread rapidly.