Here to help with school uniform costs

Spread the cost of school and college essentials.

Kitting out children and teens for the new academic year has never been cheap. But did you know that the average cost of a full school uniform and PE kit for secondary school students is £442 and £343 for primary school children? That’s according to research published by the Department for Education.

The good news is that new government rules are now in place. Schools in England will generally only be able to require three branded uniform items, or four for secondary and middle schools where one of those items is a tie (gov.uk/school-uniform). Schools will also be expected to make second-hand uniforms available and publish information about them on their websites, helping to make school uniforms more affordable for families.

In the meantime, help is still available.

Some families in the South West may be eligible for grants to help pay for school uniforms, so it’s worth checking with your local council, local education authority or organisations like Citizens Advice to see if any schemes are available where you live. If you’re unsure what help is available, it’s also worth speaking directly to your child’s school, as many now actively promote second-hand uniform schemes and can signpost families to local support.

Many schools also have uniform swap or ‘pay a pound’ schemes, enabling families to pick up quality pre-loved items and donate clothing their children have outgrown. These initiatives help parents and carers save money while extending the life of perfectly good clothing - a win-win for both families and the environment. It’s also worth checking www.grownoutofit.co.uk, a free website where you can buy and sell second-hand school uniform, as well as community ‘buy and sell’ online platforms.

If you need help spreading the cost of school uniforms and other essentials for your children, we’re here to help. Our Family Loan is ideal for these and similar purchases if you receive Child Benefit. You can apply for up to £500, making convenient weekly or four-weekly repayments from your Child Benefit.

Find out more about our Family Loan and all our other borrowing options.