Nearly half of parents with school-age children are unaware of a new regulation taking effect from September that will limit the number of branded school uniform items schools can require. The measure is designed to ease financial pressure on families amid the cost of living crisis.
From next month, most schools will only be permitted to require parents to purchase a maximum of three branded uniform items per child. The rule is part of the government's Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act, which also expands free school meals and breakfast clubs.
Survey reveals lack of awareness
A survey of 1,000 parents, conducted by advice site Money Wellness, found that 48% were completely unaware the regulations were being introduced. The new rules aim to make school uniforms more affordable, addressing reports of pupils being sent home for wearing incorrect clothing.
The act fulfills manifesto commitments to reduce costs for families, protect vulnerable children, and drive higher standards from early years through to adulthood. From September, schools will be legally required to limit branded uniform items to three (excluding ties), and half a million additional children will become eligible for free school meals. Additionally, over 2,000 free breakfast clubs will be operational by September.
Scope and guidance
The regulations apply to academy schools and trusts, maintained schools, and non-maintained special schools. The Department for Education report stated: "School uniform should help to build a sense of identity and community among pupils and with their school. To do this, it must be affordable. Affordability should never be a barrier to the schools for which parents apply or the activities in which children can participate."
From September 2026, schools must limit compulsory branded items of uniform and PE kit to three or fewer. Secondary and middle schools may require up to four items if one is a tie. Uniform policies must be published on school websites, be easily understood, and clearly state which items are compulsory and optional. Schools should avoid single-supplier contracts except in certain circumstances.
Handling non-compliance
On pupils breaching uniform policy, the DfE document states: "While it is for a headteacher to decide how to handle pupils breaching the policy on uniform and appearance, in line with the school's published behaviour policy, we would not expect pupils who are unable to comply with the uniform policy for financial reasons to miss out on classroom teaching or other aspects of school life (such as breaktime or extracurricular activities) as a result."
Frank Young, Chief Executive of Parentkind, commented: "Millions of parents are struggling with added school costs like expensive school uniform. Rising costs are hitting everyone hard, but parents have school costs they have no option but to pay. The Act will make a difference to these parents by tackling the cost of living and putting limits on expensive uniform items. This will help struggling parents, including many on middle incomes too. Free breakfast clubs and cheaper uniforms will help parents and tackle some of the extra costs that make life more difficult for parents. Getting more breakfast clubs going helps parents to hold down a job and get kids to school."
Reactions and public opinion
Children's Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza said: "The Children's Wellbeing and Schools Act is a significant step towards a more joined-up, child-centred approach to children's social care, education and safety. I have long called for many of the measures included in the legislation like a single unique identifier for children and stronger protections to keep siblings together in care. Vitally, it will strengthen safeguarding protections for children, particularly those who, as tragically happened to Sara Sharif, face being removed from school despite serious safeguarding concerns. This Act will bring about welcome change, but the true test will be how quickly and effectively these reforms are delivered for children who have been let down for too long. The government must be ambitious in their implementation of the Act so these measures have a tangible impact on children's lives as soon as possible."
Despite these reforms, parents remain split on their impact. Roughly three in five (61%) believe restricting branded items will lead to savings, while 30% are not anticipating any financial benefit.
