Tools
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 Scottish council must pay at least £120 for a primary pupil and £150 for a secondary pupil each year, and many 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 statutory national minimum every council must pay. Most 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, Child Tax Credit, etc.) or are on a low income. Applications typically open from June/July. 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 (statutory minimum £120 primary / £150 secondary, or your council’s own rate where known).
Back-to-school
Grant deadlines and back-to-school help by email
When clothing-grant applications open, rate changes when they land, and the benefits that unlock free uniform help. One short weekly email, no spam.
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.
The School Bell
Weekly Scottish-education updates
Deadlines, benefit rate changes and the stuff you actually need to know — no spam.