Sharon Hartley

Michaela Wilson, who runs a free school uniform exchange in Colne, Lancashire, doubts that England’s new rules limiting schools to three branded uniform items plus a tie will substantially reduce costs. She argues that pupils and parents will still feel pressure to buy matching branded sportswear and accessories. The exchange provides free second-hand clothing, helps families manage expenses and keeps uniforms out of landfill. The Department for Education says families could save up to £50 per child, while official figures put average uniform spending at nearly £250, including about £140 for PE kits.