As September rolls in, parents are gearing up for the new school year. Uniforms, shoes, stationery, transport, and PE kits can add up quickly, and it’s easy to feel the pressure of all the back-to-school costs piling up at once.

The good news? With smart spending, planning ahead, and exploring local resources, you can ease the financial load and still give your child everything they need to thrive in the new school year.

Here are 7 practical ways to save without sacrificing quality

1. Find low-cost or free school uniforms

Uniforms are often one of the biggest back-to-school expenses. However, there are ways to cut costs before September starts.

• Our School Uniform Bank Directory has been put together to help parents source pre-loved school uniforms. We have included uniform banks and community resale or swap shops here, to suit all needs.
• Check local uniform schemes, as many councils and schools run secondhand sales or provide vouchers in August.
• Supermarket basics like trousers, skirts, and shirts are often available at affordable prices now.
• Ask about school swap days in your community to exchange outgrown items.

2. Plan ahead and spread costs
Spread out your purchases to make costs more manageable.

• Buy uniforms, shoes, and stationery gradually over the summer.
• Take advantage of sales and cashback offers to save even more. Think Tesco Club Card and Sainsbury’s Nectar Card.

3. Buy secondhand and swap items

Children grow quickly, so consider these options:

• Charity shops, Facebook Marketplace, or Vinted for bargains.
• Local swap groups for uniforms and books. See our extensive School Uniform Bank Directory.
• Reuse items from older siblings or friends.

4. Pack smart lunches
Save money on school meals with simple planning:

• Prepare lunches with batch-cooked meals.
• Plan your shop and explore weekly supermarket offers.
• Use reusable containers to cut down on waste and cost.

5. Share transport costs
Keep travel costs manageable with simple options:

• Carpool with other parents.
• Walk or cycle to school where possible.
• Join travel clubs organised by the school to save on fares.

6. Save on PE kits and equipment
Don’t pay full price for gear your child may quickly outgrow, instead:

• Look for secondhand sports gear.
• Borrow or swap items with other parents.
• Check if your school or local charities offer support for specialist items. 

7. Explore grants and support schemes
If you’re struggling financially, know that support is available.

• FTCT offers grants for families where at least one parent works or has recently worked in the fashion and textile industry.
• Grants can cover essentials like uniforms, school shoes, and study essentials.
• Unlike loans, grants don’t need to be paid back.

Back-to-school costs in August and September can feel overwhelming, but with careful planning, secondhand finds, and the right support, you can make it more manageable.

Could you apply for an FTCT grant?

You may be eligible for a grant if you work or have recently worked for a fashion or textile employer and are caring for a child under 18.

We help parents in many situations, including:

• Financial hardship due to job loss, illness or bereavement
• Families who are rehoused after homelessness or unsafe living conditions
• Low-income households struggling with long-term financial hardship

With FTCT grants, there’s nothing to repay. It’s simply a helping hand for your family in tough times.

What can an FTCT grant help with?

Our grants cover essential items for children, such as:

• School uniforms
• Children’s bedroom furniture
• Essential appliances

Related FTCT support

You might also be interested in:

School Uniform Grants (https://www.ftct.org.uk/listing/category/school-essentials