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2w ago

UK School Costs Surge, Straining Family Budgets

New report reveals a 30% rise in secondary school costs and 16% increase for primary since 2022, prompting calls for expanded government support.

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Parents pay almost £450 for secondary school uniforms, while packed lunches and snacks cost £846 each year
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Overview

  • The annual cost of sending a child to secondary school in the UK has risen by £520 since 2022, reaching £2,275, while primary school costs now exceed £1,000 per year.
  • These increases, driven by rising food prices, digital learning needs, and subject-specific materials, have outpaced both inflation and earnings growth.
  • Families report financial strain and children experiencing exclusion or sanctions due to missing equipment or being unable to participate in activities.
  • The Department for Education has introduced measures to cap branded uniform requirements and tripled investment in breakfast clubs to over £30 million.
  • The Child Poverty Action Group is urging the government to expand free school meals and uniform grants as part of its upcoming child poverty strategy.