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UK schools are either government funded and free for all pupils, or they are independent and charge termly fees. Even if you chose to send your child to a government funded school, there are still additional costs to consider. Read on to learn more about the costs you can expect when your kids start school and how you can keep these costs as low as possible!
Uniform
New school uniform supplies soon add up! – In fact, parents can expect to spend over £100 on new uniform, school shoes and a PE kit at the start of an academic year. Unfortunately it doesn’t stop there and this expense can increase throughout the year with replacement uniform or themed costume days.
Tip: Don’t forget to label everything so that their lost belongings have a chance of getting back to them. Sew in labels, use name stickers or write their names on their uniform using a permanent marker to save costly replacements later on.
School supplies
Children like to have new school bags and stationary when they start school, usually branded with their favourite movie characters or popstars. Before you hit the shops, do your research online to find the cheapest ‘back to school’ deals. You should also look out for seasonal sales and put things away for next term. ‘Pound shops’ are great for cheap stationary bundles and charity shops are an ideal place to find preloved school bags or uniform.
School dinners or packed lunches
In UK government funded schools, children receive free school meals until the end of Year 2. However this may be extended if your family receives certain benefits. To find out if your child is eligible you should check your local authority’s website.
Putting together you own packed lunches can sometimes work out more economical then paying for school dinners. Plan ahead and shop for supplies that you can spread out throughout the week.
