New school uniform rule that most parents don’t know about explained as it's coming into force next month

While many children across the UK are enjoying some well-deserved time off during the school holidays, it's clear a fair few parents and caregivers haven't a clue about a strict new school uniform rule coming into force next month.

Kids broke up for the school holidays last month (around 21 July) and will go back to their lessons in just a few weeks' time (1 September).

Amidst the frantic rucksacks, lunchboxes and stationery buying, parents also have to sort uniforms.

In a move to make school uniforms more affordable, most schools will only be allowed to ask parents to buy a maximum of three branded uniform items per child - but not all parents agree on the change.

Parents have been issued an important message about a new school uniform rule which comes into place next month (Getty Stock Images)

According to a survey of 1,000 parents with school-age children by advice site Money Wellness, as many as 48% had no idea about the new rules.

While 61% reckon the change will help them save some money, 30% don't think they'll notice any major savings at all.

UK parents are facing a significant financial squeeze ahead of the new school term, with the annual cost of school uniforms surging by almost 30% in just one year, according to new research from money-saving site MyVoucherCodes.

As many as 48% of parents had no idea about the new rules, according to a new survey (Getty Stock Images)

The nationwide study reveals that the average yearly spend has climbed to £141.15 in 2026, up from £108.59 in 2025.

Additionally, more than half of parents (57.9%) say they will have to spend even more on uniforms over the rest of the year, anticipating an average additional expenditure of £129.09 to cover replacements, growth spurts, and seasonal changes.

Strict school policies are driving these costs, with 73% of parents still forced to buy expensive branded uniforms despite government guidance.

Sarah-Jane, a shopping and lifestyle expert at MyVoucherCodes, said via PA: "A 30% cost jump puts intense pressure on families, especially when most are still forced to buy branded items. While supermarket multi-buys help ease the burden, more must be done to keep school uniforms genuinely affordable."

One study revealed that the average yearly spend on school uniforms climbed to £141.15 in 2026 (Getty Stock Images)

The expert went on to share her tips on how to save money when buying school uniforms:

- Host or join uniform swaps - team up with other parents to trade gently used uniforms and save money for everyone involved

- Buy second-hand - platforms like Vinted, Facebook Marketplace, and local uniform exchanges can be goldmines for high-quality pre-loved uniform items

- Buy plain, add Logos - purchase plain supermarket clothing and attach school logos yourself

- Shop out of peak season - start early to beat price hikes and low stock in August and consider shopping during sales earlier in the year

- Use discount voucher sites - always check sites for the latest deals and promo codes on school wear and supplies before making a purchase