The sacrifices parents make to afford children’s school uniform
Could you pass a GCSE exam?
A survey indicates that over a quarter of parents will go without food or heating to afford school uniform, with many relying on credit cards or 'buy now, pay later' schemes.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has called on schools to reduce branded uniform items, ahead of a new law capping compulsory branded items to three from September 2026.
The Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill aims to alleviate financial strain on families, with 85 per cent of parents believing schools could cut costs by reducing branded items.
While parents largely support the cap, some schoolwear retailers caution that it could lead to higher overall costs if unbranded items prove less durable.
School leaders recognise the financial pressures on families, with some already relaxing uniform rules, though one headteacher suggested the cap might hinder behaviour management.
