Parents concerned about cost of sending children to school, survey shows

Over 78 per cent of parents believe the cost of sending children to a state school is increasing, new research shows.

According to a survey carried out by PTA UK, 55 per cent of participants believe that this is an area of concern.

Overall, half were concerned about the costs of school trips and on average 48 per cent worry about the cost of uniforms.

Nearly a quarter (23 per cent), worry about the cost of school meals.

The cost of technology, as well as materials and equipment for music, art, and sports, are also a cause for concern for a fifth of parents.

Further findings from the research also show that 42 per cent of parents have been asked to donate to the school fund compared to last year’s 37 per cent.

For example, six in 10 parents in London (61 per cent) compared to only a quarter of parents in the East Midlands reported to being asked to contribute to their school fund.

On average, £8.90 is donated by all parents monthly

Out of all parents surveyed, nearly four in 10 (38 per cent) state they do not want to donate to their school fund, with parents over 45 (45 per cent) and those with children in secondary school (40 per cent) or further education (45 per cent) the least willing to contribute in this way.