How to save money on school uniforms this summer

The summer holidays are here - but it won’t be long before you’re waving the kids off to school in their new uniforms.

So how you can make sure they’re properly kitted out for the new school year without breaking the bank?

Time it right - especially for growing kids

It’s tempting to get the school shop out of the way early, but buying too far in advance can backfire if your child is going through a growth spurt.

So buy essentials early if you spot a good deal, but maybe hold off on fitted items like trousers, skirts and shoes until closer to the start of term.

Don’t feel pressured to buy everything new

You don’t have to start each school year with a completely fresh wardrobe. 

If last year’s clothes still fit and are in good condition, just top up the essentials.

Size up where you can

Sizing up means your child has room to grow into their clothes.

That can help uniforms last a bit longer and stop you having to buy more uniform items later in the term.

Shop second-hand and online

You can bag pre-loved items at bargain platforms on platforms like Vinted, eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Uniformly.

Some will have been worn before but still be in great condition, while some might even be brand new and still with tags.

You could also check in with friends or relatives who have older kids at the same school.

They might have some uniform items they don’t need any more that are still as good as new - and they’ll probably be more than happy to pass them on to you for nothing.

Snap up supermarket deals early

The major supermarkets will have special offers on uniform items and school essentials over the summer.

Aldi, for instance, is currently offering a bundle for just £5, with individual items from £1.50.

But these deals sell out fast, so it pays to shop early or check online stock.

Check for local uniform exchanges

Many schools and community groups offer free or low-cost second-hand uniforms. 

Ask your child’s school or check local Facebook groups and community centres for details.

Whether you’re struggling to find the money to pay for new items of school clothing or you’re trying to be as green as possible, they’re worth checking out.

Simply take in school uniform your child has grown out of and swap it for items in the right size.  

See if you qualify for council help

Some local councils offer up to £200 as a non-repayable grant to help with the cost. 

You can typically get help if your child qualifies for free school meals, and if you receive at least one of the following benefits:  

• child tax credit
• income support
• income-based job seekers allowance
• income-related employment and support allowance
• support under part VI of the immigration and asylum act 1999
• the guaranteed element of pension credit
• universal credit
• working tax credit 

To find out if you're eligible or apply for help, contact your local council.  

Check what support your school offers

Schools have a legal requirement to make sure uniforms are affordable and that they’re never a barrier to students attending school.

Some schools offer second-hand uniforms - check their website to see if your kid’s school is one of them.

If you can’t afford to buy a uniform, PE kit or footwear, speak to your child’s headteacher directly to find out if they can offer any help.

New rules could help with school uniform costs

Parents will also be able to save money on uniform costs when new rules on branded school items come into effect.

The government’s Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill includes a plan to limit schools to three branded items per child, plus a tie. 

This change could save mums and dads more than £50 per child on uniforms when the measures are introduced in September 2026. 

How much do parents spend on school uniforms?  

According to a recent poll by Wynsors:

• 78% of parents spent over £100 per school year on uniform.
• More than half of these (57%) spent up to £249.
• Nearly one in three (32%) are replacing school shoes every three to six months because their children are growing out of their current pair.

Paying for school uniforms is something you can’t avoid if you have a school-age child.

But with a bit of planning, you can cut the cost without compromising on quality or comfort.