A major shake-up to school uniform rules is on the way, and it’s set to affect millions of families across England. The Department for Education (DfE) estimates that up to four million students could be impacted by the new guidelines, which are expected to come into effect by September 2026.
👚 What’s Changing?
The new policy, introduced through the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, aims to reduce the number of compulsory branded items in school uniforms. The government wants to cut down on these items, limiting them to just three for 35% of primary schools and 70% of secondary schools.
The goal is to save families money, with an estimated £50 per child in savings on uniforms. This comes as part of the government’s ongoing effort to make schooling more affordable for families.
💰 Will It Really Save Families Money?
While the government argues that limiting branded uniforms will help parents save money, some critics disagree. The Schoolwear Association, which represents school uniform suppliers, has voiced concerns that cheaper, non-branded items may not last as long as their branded counterparts. As a result, parents could end up spending more in the long run replacing these garments.
Additionally, some believe that branded uniforms help reduce inequality among students, providing a more consistent and fair standard for everyone.
👩👧👦 A Mum’s Perspective
For one mum from Darlington, the new rules are creating serious financial stress. With three children at secondary school, she’s already facing hefty costs for school shoes, which alone are costing her £60 per child each year. “It’s just a nightmare,” she says. “That’s not even including blazers, PE kits, or anything else.”
The new rules may only add to the challenge of keeping up with these ongoing expenses.
💸 The True Cost of School Uniforms
According to the Department for Education, the average cost for a full secondary school uniform, including PE kit, is £442. For primary school students, the cost is £99 cheaper. But for many families, these numbers still represent a significant financial burden.
