Onesie was the word at Sandown and Warden House primary schools on the last Wednesday of term.

Both schools invited their pupils to wear the comfy all-in-ones for the day as part of World Autism Awareness Week 2015.

The aim was to raise awareness and money for the Deal and Dover Branch of the National Autistic Society.

Children at Sandown could wear a onesie or purple and pink clothes, which are the colours for the NAS this year.

The school said goodbye last term to pupil Jack Palmer, eight, who has a diagnosis of autism. He is off to pastures new at Laleham Gap Primary in Thanet, a school that caters for ASD pupils.

His mum, Anna Palmer, said: “I cannot thank Sandown enough for the love and care shown to Jack in his time at the school. He will miss the teachers, helpers and all of his supportive friends as he moves school, and we are so glad you have helped to champion the great cause of the NAS for Jack.”

At Warden House, staff including principal Graham Chisnell joined in too, wearing their onesies or pyjamas.

The school in Birdwood Avenue has a number of autistic pupils. They held a cake sale during the morning break, raising more £300.

Mr Chisnell said: “The National Autistic Society is a fantastic cause to support and undertakes deeply valuable work in support of children and families who are living with autism.

"I have been humbled with the support for this remarkable charity from our children, staff and parents.”

Donations to NAS can be made at Sandown School in Golf Road.