A new law coming into force in England this September aims to reduce the number of branded school uniform items parents are required to purchase. The legislation will limit compulsory branded items to three, such as a blazer, jumper, or sportswear, with an additional tie for secondary school pupils.
The government anticipates these changes could save some families "up to £50 per child." While many schools already adhere to these guidelines, approximately a quarter of schools will need to modify their uniform policies before the law takes effect.
For instance, Co-op Academy Belle Vue in Manchester plans to decrease its compulsory branded items from seven to three, plus a tie. The school estimates that the average cost of branded uniform parts will fall from £101.94 (with a pinafore) or £83.95 (without) last year to an average of £53.97 this year. One parent with three children at the school reported a £70 reduction in her uniform bill this year.
However, the impact on parents may vary, as individual schools set their own uniform policies. Some parents have expressed frustration that their children's schools have not yet changed their policies, with one London parent expecting to spend over £200 on branded items for her two sons due to compulsory branded blazers, polo shirts, shorts, and two-toned PE socks.
The Association of School and College Leaders, a head teachers' union, suggests that the actual cost difference for most families might be marginal. The education secretary has legal authority to ensure schools comply with the new rules.