For many families, buying school uniform is one of the biggest back-to-school expenses.

In fact, 44% of parents who responded to our recent Back-to-School Survey told us that the cost of school uniforms at the start of term and throughout the year is one of their biggest concerns.

When you're trying to get everything ready for a new school year, it's easy to head straight to the shops. But taking a few minutes to plan first could help you avoid unnecessary spending.

Here are five questions worth asking before you buy

1. Does my child actually need a whole new uniform?

Children grow quickly, but not every item will necessarily need replacing.

Before shopping, ask your child to try everything on. Shirts, trousers, skirts, PE kits, coats and school bags may still fit perfectly well, meaning you only need to replace a few essentials rather than buying everything again.

2. Have I checked what we already have?

It sounds simple, but many families discover duplicate water bottles, pencil cases or PE kit tucked away in cupboards.

Taking stock before you shop can help you avoid buying things you already own and make it easier to plan what you genuinely need.

Our Back-to-School Checklist is a useful way to keep track of what's already sorted and what's still on your shopping list.

3. Have I looked at second-hand options?

Many schools, charities and community groups offer good-quality second-hand uniforms for a fraction of the cost of buying new.

FTCT's School Uniform Bank Directory can help you find local school uniform banks across the UK, making it easier to explore affordable options close to home.

4. Could I spread the cost over the summer?

If you're able to, buying items gradually rather than all at once can make back-to-school shopping feel more manageable.

Keeping an eye on supermarket promotions and loyalty schemes throughout the summer may also help reduce the overall cost.

5. Do I know what support is available?

If school uniform costs are causing financial pressure, it's worth exploring what support may be available before making purchases.

Some schools offer uniform exchanges or hardship support, and depending on where you live, local authorities or charities may also be able to help.

If you work, or have worked, in the UK fashion or textile industry, FTCT may also be able to support your family through a grant if you're eligible.

More back-to-school resources to explore

• Explore our School Uniform Bank Directory
• Download our free Back-to-School Checklist
• Learn more about FTCT grants and check whether your family could be eligible for support

Are you a parent struggling financially?

If you work in the UK fashion and textile industry and are finding it hard to make ends meet, FTCT may be able to help. We believe every child deserves the chance to thrive, which is why we provide grants to support families during challenging times.

Could you apply for an FTCT grant?

You may be eligible if:

• you work or have recently worked for a UK fashion or textile employer, and
• you are caring for a child under 18.

FTCT supports families experiencing financial difficulties due to:

• Financial hardship due to job loss, illness, or bereavement
• Being rehoused after homelessness or unsafe living conditions
• Long-term low income and ongoing financial pressure

What can an FTCT grant help with?

Our grants can contribute towards:

• Clothing and school uniforms
• Bedroom furniture
• Study equipment, including laptops
• White goods and essential household items
• Specialist or sensory equipment
• Therapy and wellbeing support

Don’t work in fashion or textiles?

If you have never worked for a UK fashion or textile company, unfortunately we won't be the right charity for you. Please try this list of other charities who might be able to help your family.

Related FTCT support

You might also be interested in:

Making School Uniform Costs More Manageable

Budget Tips Every Parent Should Know

Making the Summer Holidays More Manageable on a Budget