1 week ago
58
From September 2026 a new law comes into force, which will mean parents and carers in England should not have to buy more than three items of branded school uniform. Secondary and middle schools may ask for four items if a tie is one of them.
The government says it hopes the new law will “ensure the cost of school uniforms is reasonable and provides the best value for money”.
And it’s not just about uniforms and kits – items that students need for some school subjects can also be expensive.
We would like to speak to UK parents and carers about the costs they face when sending their children to school. What are some of the weirdest and/or priciest things that you are expected to fork out for in the year ahead?
We know that costly items differ depending on the age of the child, so we’d like to hear from parents of younger and older students.
Share your experience
You can share your response in the form below or by messaging us.
Your responses, which can be anonymous, are secure as the form is encrypted and only the Guardian has access to your contributions. We will only use the data you provide us for the purpose of the feature and we will delete any personal data when we no longer require it for this purpose. For alternative ways to get in touch securely please see our
Tell us a bit about yourself (e.g. age, background, what you do)
Optional
What are some of the weirdest and/or priciest school items that you are expected to fork out for in the year ahead?
Please include as much detail as possible.
Do costly items change when your child gets older?
Optional
Please include as much detail as possible.
If you are happy to, please upload a photo of yourself here
Optional
Please note, the maximum file size is 5.7 MB.
Choose file
Your contact details are helpful so we can contact you for more information. They will only be seen by the Guardian.
Your contact details are helpful so we can contact you for more information. They will only be seen by the Guardian.
You can add more information here
Optional
If you include other people's names please ask them first.
By submitting your response, you are agreeing to share your details with us for this feature.
