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What will the school uniform cost?
Kitting out a child for a new school year adds up fast — blazer, jumpers, shirts, PE kit, shoes and a coat. Adjust the basket to your own shop, then see how it compares with the School Clothing Grant your council pays. Every grant is at least £120 for a primary pupil and £150 for a secondary pupil each year, and many councils pay more.
Estimated uniform spend
£258
A typical secondary-stage kit for one child
This is a first-year estimate for a full kit. In later years you often only replace what’s outgrown or worn out, so the yearly cost usually drops.
School Clothing Grant
- Grant per secondary pupil
- £150/yr
- Left to find yourself
- £108
This is the national minimum every grant must be at least (mygov.scot). Many councils pay more — pick your council above, or see the full rates by council.
Claim the grant before you shop
The School Clothing Grant is paid by your council, usually if you get a qualifying benefit (Universal Credit, Pension Credit and similar) or are on a low income. Most councils accept applications from July until the end of March. Who qualifies and how to apply.
Item prices are editorial mid-range estimates for a 2026 back-to-school shop, not verified retail figures — adjust every row to your own basket. The grant amounts are the current School Clothing Grant rates (national minimum £120 primary / £150 secondary, or your council’s own rate where known).
Email me this breakdown
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Back-to-school
Clothing-grant deadlines and back-to-school help
When applications open, rate changes when they land, and the benefits that unlock free uniform support. One short weekly email. No spam.
What to do next
You have the answer. These are the decisions it usually leads to.