Schools told to limit branded uniform items

The government has updated its guidance on school uniforms, calling for them to start limiting branded uniform and PE Kit items ahead of the cap coming into force in the Children’s Wellbeing & Schools Bill. 

The guidance says that affordability should never be a barrier for parents, and that schools should engage with parents and pupils when they are developing their uniform policy. They need to think about the total cost of uniforms, taking into account all the items that parents will need to provide while their child is at the school.

The guidance says that from September 2026, schools should limit the number of compulsory branded items of uniform and PE kit to three or fewer. 

Secondary and middle schools should limit the number of compulsory branded items of uniform and PE kit to four or fewer, if one is a tie 

The government is currently pursuing legislation to make this limit mandatory.

A recent Parentkind poll revealed that more than a quarter of parents will go without heating or eating to cover uniform costs.