From September, all schools in England will be required by law to limit the number of branded uniform items they ask pupils to buy to no more than three. This includes jumpers, blazers, trousers, and skirts, but excludes ties for secondary school students. The change is part of the new Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act, introduced by the Department for Education to reduce educational costs for families.
Statutory Guidance on Uniform Costs
Issuing statutory guidance earlier this year, the Department for Education stated that the affordability of school uniform 'should never be a barrier to the schools for which parents apply'. The Act also expands cost-of-living measures, including free school meals and free breakfast clubs. By September, over 2,000 free breakfast clubs are expected to be open, and half a million more children will become eligible for free school meals, according to the Department.
Reactions from Officials and Advocates
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson commented: 'This landmark legislation fixes the foundations in our schools, puts money back into parents’ pockets, and provides critical new protections for our most vulnerable children.' She added that the government is 'making strides to cut the link between background and success.'
Frank Young, Chief Executive of Parentkind, said: 'Millions of parents are struggling with added school costs like expensive school uniform. The Act will make a difference to these parents by tackling the cost of living and putting limits on expensive uniform items.'
Mobile Phone Ban Also Takes Effect
From Monday, June 29, schools have also been required to ensure pupils do not have access to mobile phones or similar smart devices like smartwatches throughout the entire school day. Phillipson said: 'We have been clear that mobile phones have no place in our schools but now we’re going further through tougher guidance and stronger enforcement.'
