As children return to school for the 2026-27 year, the government is introducing new rules to help address the added financial pressures on parents through excessive school uniform costs.
For example, schools must now limit the number of compulsory branded items of uniform and PE kit to 3 or fewer and 4 or fewer for secondary and middle schools, if one is a tie.
This policy is part of the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 and focuses on what schools may already be doing to support uniform costs and how they could strengthen this further.
The latest research from the Children’s Society found the average cost of a primary school uniform and PE kit to be £343.28, and £442.25 for a secondary school, driven by the cost of branded items. Their study shows that parents overwhelmingly supported the introduction of a statutory limit on school- branded uniform, with 78% agreeing such a limit should be put in place.
The government has responded to the research and is putting measures in place on branded items, potentially saving families hundreds of pounds as children return to school for the new term.
Labour MP Charlotte Nichols says: “School uniform should help to build a sense of identity and community among pupils and with their school. To do this, it must be affordable.
Affordability should never be a barrier which restricts parental choice or the activities in which children can participate.
It is great that the government are acknowledging this and acting to support parents further through the cost of living crisis.”
The government advice states that schools should inform all parents of any requirements for unbranded generic alternatives and be made aware of where second-hand uniforms can be bought so they can purchase appropriately. Schools are also advised to publish their revised uniform policy on the school’s website and ensure that it is easily understood.
