Save money on back to school costs

Buy second-hand

Buying school uniforms second-hand is an easy way to save money. Schools in England are expected to make second-hand uniforms available to families where possible, helping to reduce costs and support sustainability.
 
You can also check local charity shops, online community groups, or organise a uniform swap with other parents to exchange outgrown items.
 
Use supermarkets for non-branded items

Schools are expected to keep uniform costs affordable and limit the number of branded items they require. Before buying uniform, check which items need to be school-specific and which can be purchased elsewhere.
 
Supermarkets and high street retailers often sell shirts, trousers, skirts and PE kit for much less than specialist suppliers.
 
Check whether financial support is available

There is no national school uniform grant in England. However, some local councils offer financial assistance to families on lower incomes, and support may also be available through local Household Support Fund schemes.
 
Eligibility and the amount available vary depending on where you live. Contact your local council or your child's school to find out what help may be available. Some schools also operate their own hardship funds or support schemes.
 
Apply for free school meals

Depending on your circumstances, your child may qualify for free school meals.
 
In England, all children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 attending a state-funded school are entitled to universal free school meals.

Children in families receiving certain benefits may also qualify for means-tested free school meals beyond these year groups.
 
You can check eligibility and apply through your local authority. If you do not qualify, packed lunches can help reduce costs. Preparing lunches at home and choosing supermarket own-brand products can help you save money.
 
Reuse items from last year

Where possible, reuse backpacks, lunchboxes, pencil cases and other equipment from the previous school year. If school shoes, PE kit or coats are still in good condition, keeping them for another year can make a real difference to your back-to-school budget.
 
Check which benefits you may be entitled to

Many families are missing out on financial support they are entitled to. In addition to Child Benefit, depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for Universal Credit, help with childcare costs, Healthy Start vouchers or other local support schemes.
 
Our financial inclusion team may also be able to help you find the support available to you. You can book a call with the team to find out what you might be entitled to. 
 
Label, label, label!
 
Clearly label all your child's belongings, including uniform, PE kit, coats and lunchboxes. This can help prevent items from being lost or mixed up with other children's belongings, saving you the cost of replacing them.