It wouldn’t be a back-to-school routine without the rush to get school uniforms and to sew, iron, hammer on a thousand labels. It can become a major problem in the lives of many parents – and on their credit cards.
Some believe school uniforms are a waste of money and time. Some argue they promote community, break down class barriers and encourage disciplined learning at school.
The cost of school uniforms has been the subject of a lot media coverage. Research has revealed that the School Uniform Grant is not available in more than 80% of English local authorities. This national benefit was created in 1980 to assist parents with clothing costs.
One MP even tried to introduce a new school uniform bill to parliament. This would establish a maximum price, require schools to purchase uniforms from multiple suppliers, and limit the number of items that have school-specific requirements.
These tips will make it easier for you and your bank to purchase your child’s school uniform.
1/ Do not buy more school uniforms from branded brands than you actually need
Here are the items you will need to purchase from your school supplier: A few school jumpers, cardigans, polo tops and a book bag. If it is branded, a PE shirt.
Everything else including boys school shirts is available at the supermarket and other shops.
This includes:
For girls, pinafore dresses, summer dresses and skirts, or trousers
Boys can wear shorts or trousers.
PE trousers/shorts/jumpers
Coats
Socks / tights
You don’t need to purchase branded t-shirts if your girl wears a pinafore gown. The logo will be covered by the dress.
Second hand sales are a popular way to find pre-owned branded uniforms at schools. Contact your school office to inquire if they have one. You could also ask your friends if they have any uniforms for sale if you are a member of a local Facebook group.
2/ Purchase school uniforms that are easy to fit your child’s needs
Although it’s tempting to purchase shoes with pretty laces or buckles, your child must be able take the shoes off and on for PE. This can be difficult when they are young. Velcro shoes are easier for children to use.
Trousers can be a great option for girls for PE days because they are easier to put on than tights. If your child is averse to buttons, you might consider summer dresses with zips.
3. Look out for early sales
Many shops offer back-to-school sales in the summer. M&S usually has theirs in June. This is a great opportunity to save money and not panic in August or September, when shelves are empty.
Although your child won’t outgrow their uniform in the summer, it is possible to buy a larger size if you are able. You can store them in your wardrobe for next year if they grow too large.
4/ Don’t waste money on shoes
While your daughter might be in dire need of the shoes with the Disney character, if she is anything like mine, the shoes will soon look like roadkill. They’ll be scuffed if your child walks to school or uses their shoes for breaks.
You can find a wide range of school shoes in supermarkets at an affordable price. Although you might need to try them on several times to find the perfect fit, they are very comfortable. Asda is our favorite. Buy the shoes early in the summer, as it is difficult to find shoes by August end. Your child’s feet will likely not grow in one month.
5/ Choose a uniform that is wrinkle resistant so you don’t need to iron.
Ironing is a pain. There’s nothing more to it.
6/ Wear dark socks and tights
Schools have a wide range of acceptable colors for socks and tights. Dark socks are better than white socks, as they get grubby very quickly, especially in winter and autumn. Girls should wear tights that are one to two sizes larger than their regular size as they shrink.
You should buy different socks and tights for your children if they attend the same school. Otherwise, you will lose your mind trying sorting them out on laundry day.
7/ Label EVERYTHING
Even socks. Particularly hats, scarves, and snoods. Unlabelled gloves will not be returned to your child if they are sent to school. You don’t have the time or patience to sew/iron on your child’s clothes. Done.
8/ Wash separately
It was hard for me to accept this because I am a very optimistic, chuck it all in, and hope for the best kind of person. If you want your shiny white polo shirts to last, wash them separately. If you don’t want your other items to have a pink tint, avoid bright red jumpers and cardigans.
What size school uniform should you buy?
It all depends on the child, how often they like to eat school dinner at home, and what their preferences are. Here are some suggestions for starter shopping:
4-5 polo shirts
2-3 Cardigans/ Jumpers
Trousers/shorts/dresses/skirts
5-10 socks / tights
When buying school uniforms, should I choose quality or quantity?
It all depends on your personal budget, but many parents choose to do both. Your child will wear the uniform to school, and it will be washed many times. Cheaper options might not last as long.
