The cost of back-to-school shopping
Back-to-school shopping is increasingly expensive, leaving many families struggling to afford essentials. With the UK government proposing the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, we look at the rising costs facing families across the UK.
The new bill will aim to reduce the cost of school uniforms, as well as free breakfast clubs in all state-funded primary schools across England.
According to Child Poverty Action Group and Loughborough University's Centre for Research in Social Policy (CRSP), the minimum cost of education in the UK is now over £1,000 a year for a primary school child. For a secondary school pupil, it costs a family a minimum of £2,300 a year (based on 2024 costings).
With 4.5 million children living in poverty and an ongoing cost-of-living crisis, these expenses put huge financial pressure on families who are already struggling to manage high energy bills and inflation.
Despite some schools taking steps to reduce uniform costs, many still require 10 or more branded items per child, according to the Department of Education.
These branded items, such as PE kits and backpacks with school logos, are more expensive and must be purchased from specialist shops.
As a result, some families have fewer options to buy cheaper alternatives, such as second-hand school uniform sales or school shirts from the supermarket.
On top of expensive uniforms, families must also factor in pencil cases, new shoes, school meals, lunch bags, transport and other back to school essentials.
Child Poverty Action Group revealed that learning materials cost a family £64.66 for a child in primary school, and £449.67 for secondary school.
Technology such as laptops is often necessary for pupils to complete homework and revise for exams.
These costs add up, forcing some parents and carers to budget for back-to-school shopping across the year, with many reaching out to charities like Action for Children for help.
Schools are meant to give children and young people the opportunity to flourish. But with child poverty at a record high, it can heighten feelings of social exclusion, social anxiety, or shame.
That’s why we work with vulnerable families across the UK to help reduce the financial pressure of back-to-school shopping.
We do this by providing emergency food packages, books, clothing, and school uniforms.
These materials should not be a luxury. Donate today and you could help a vulnerable child thrive at school.
Frequently asked questions about back-to-school costs in the UK
How much does back-to-school shopping cost in the UK?
Research shows that educating a child can cost families over £1,000 a year in primary school and more than £2,300 in secondary school. Uniforms, learning materials, transport and technology all contribute to the total.
Why are school uniforms so expensive?
Many schools require multiple branded items that must be purchased from specific suppliers. This limits families’ ability to shop around or buy cheaper alternatives.
What support is available for families struggling with school costs?
Some schools offer second-hand uniform schemes or financial support. The government has proposed measures to reduce uniform costs, and charities such as Action for Children provide practical help to families facing hardship.
Help us give a child the materials they need to thrive
For parents and carers, our Parent Talk website offers free expert tips on how to save money on back to school shopping.
Keep up to date with Action for Children!
Sign up to our newsletter