A family in Guernsey reported spending nearly £800 on school uniforms despite shopping sales and second-hand options. Mother Nikki highlighted the financial strain due to the rising cost of living and specific school uniform requirements for her children, ages 10, 11, 14, and 16.
The States have indicated that 1,027 children will receive grants for school uniforms this year, with an additional 667 applications reportedly received as of a recent Monday. The uniform grant scheme remains open until April, suggesting that more applications may come in later.
Verona Tomlin, the principal of Les Varendes High School, noted that the school has a uniform store available for students and parents to access necessary clothes. She mentioned that staff engage in discreet conversations with families needing assistance, offering uniforms without stigma.
Nikki expressed frustration over specific school policies, such as mandated sock colors, questioning their impact on students’ learning. Tomlin responded by stating that uniforms foster a sense of belonging within the school community. To manage expenses, Nikki and her husband planned ahead by saving their August paychecks.
In Jersey, parental Clive shared insights on secondary school costs, noting the need for additional school supplies as children progress. He emphasized the value of second-hand uniforms, encouraging reuse among siblings. Freya, a student, mentioned the necessity of purchasing new stationery items each year, despite having reusable supplies from the previous year.
The Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority estimated that parents typically spend between £100 and £200 yearly on uniforms. Claire Mackenzie from the Jersey Hospice Shop noted that their pop-up sales for new uniforms at discounted prices have gained popularity, with full uniforms available for £15 to £20, which she described as significant savings. Carl Walker from the Jersey Consumer Council estimated that total back-to-school costs could reach £400 per child, factoring in uniforms, stationery, lunchboxes, and haircuts.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckgy5gdd393o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss