The average UK family spends over £300 per child on school uniforms each year, according to The Children's Society. For families with multiple children, that figure can be eye-watering. But it doesn't have to be. Whether you're preparing for September or replacing worn-out items mid-year, there are plenty of ways to slash the cost. Here's how to keep your kids looking smart without emptying your wallet.
Buy Supermarket Own-Brand Uniforms
Supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, Asda, Tesco, and Sainsbury's all sell school uniform bundles at a fraction of the price of high-street retailers. A full polo shirt, trousers, and jumper set can cost under £5 in some stores. The quality has improved massively in recent years, with many items reinforced at the knees and machine-washable at high temperatures.
- Aldi's back-to-school range launches in June — set a reminder
- Asda's George range is available year-round online
- Lidl runs limited uniform sales — grab them early
Check for School Uniform Grants
Many local councils in the UK offer school uniform grants or clothing allowances for families on low incomes. Eligibility typically depends on whether you receive benefits such as Universal Credit, Income Support, or Housing Benefit. The grant amount varies by council — some offer £50, others up to £150 per child.
- Search your council's website for 'school clothing grant'
- Apply early — some councils have limited funds each year
- Free school meal eligibility often qualifies you automatically
Use Uniform Swaps and Second-Hand Sales
Many schools run second-hand uniform sales or swap events, especially at the end of the summer term. Facebook Marketplace, local community groups, and apps like Vinted are also goldmines for nearly-new uniform items. Branded blazers and PE kits — usually the most expensive items — can often be found for a quarter of the retail price.
- Ask your school's PTA about swap events
- Check local Facebook groups for uniform bundles
- Donate outgrown items to keep the cycle going
Buy Ahead and Size Up
One of the simplest tricks is to buy one size up and roll or hem where needed. Children grow fast, and buying slightly larger means items last longer. Shopping in the sales — particularly the post-September clearance — can save 30-50% on next year's uniform. Keep a running list of what your child needs so you're ready to pounce when prices drop.
- Post-September sales often start in October
- January sales are great for PE trainers and coats
- Label everything to reduce lost-item replacements
Challenge Your School's Uniform Policy
Some schools require branded items from a single supplier, driving up costs significantly. The Department for Education's guidance states that schools should keep uniform costs reasonable and avoid single-supplier arrangements where possible. If your school's uniform policy feels excessive, raise it with the governors. Parents have successfully campaigned for more affordable alternatives.
- DfE guidance says uniforms should be affordable for all families
- Schools should allow generic items where possible
- Governors must consider cost when setting uniform policy
Use SYM to Build a Uniform Fund
The smartest approach is to save a little each month so the September bill doesn't hit all at once. With SYM, you can set up a dedicated savings goal for school uniforms and track your progress. Even £20 a month from January gives you £160 by August — enough to cover most of the essentials. Pair that with the tips above and you'll barely feel the cost.
- school uniforms
- parenting
- saving money
- back to school
- UK families