Even though the new school year is well underway, parents know that the challenge of keeping kids looking sharp in their uniforms never really ends! Whether playground scrapes have already worn them out or you’re just on the lookout for a few last bits, we’re here to help lighten the load on your wallet. According to The Children’s Society, the average cost of uniforms for a primary-aged child last year was £287, climbing to £422 for secondary school students. While this expense can be overwhelming, there are plenty of ways to save by shopping smartly. Supermarkets often provide some of the most affordable options, frequently outpricing high-street retailers. Below, we’ve listed the 5 best supermarket deals on school uniforms currently available, along with 9 expert money-saving tips to help you stretch your budget even further!
The 5 Best Supermarket Deals on School Uniforms
George at Asda
Asda’s George range remains a favourite for its affordability and durability. With items like polo shirts starting from £2.50 and full uniforms under £10, Asda offers some of the best deals around. Their multi-buy options allow parents to stock up for less. Although availability may vary by store, George consistently ranks as a top pick for parents.
Top pick: 2-pack polo shirts for £3.
Tesco F&F
Tesco’s F&F Clothing line is another great option for budget-conscious parents. Known for practical and durable fabrics, Tesco’s uniforms offer value for money. With deals like 3 shirts for £5 and trousers or skirts from £4, dressing children without breaking the bank is easier than ever. Tesco also runs promotions through their Clubcard, offering up to 25% off at certain times.
Top pick: 3-pack polo shirts for £5.
Lidl
Lidl closely competes with Aldi, providing ultra-affordable uniform options. During their back-to-school promotion, uniforms are priced similarly to Aldi’s. These deals often disappear from shelves quickly.
Top pick: Boys’ or girls’ sweatshirts for £1.50.
Sainsbury’s Tu Clothing
Sainsbury’s Tu Clothing provides an excellent balance between quality and price. Their uniforms are known for being easy to wash and replace, making them a go-to for parents. Sainsbury’s often runs sales with up to 25% off, so keeping an eye on promotions helps you snag a great deal. Although slightly more expensive than some other supermarkets, they offer reliability in fabric and fit.
Top pick: 2-pack skirts from £6.
Aldi
Aldi is famous for its super-low-cost school uniforms. Their Back to School event offers a full uniform (polo shirt, sweatshirt, and trousers or skirt) for just £5. These uniform bundles tend to sell out fast, so it’s worth checking back regularly for these unbeatable deals.
Top pick: Full uniform set for £5.
9 Expert Tips to Save Even More on School Uniforms
While supermarket deals are fantastic, many parents find additional ways to save by following these tips:
- Stock Up Early at the Supermarket
Supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl offer unbeatable uniform bundles for £5, which include two polo shirts, one sweatshirt, and either trousers, a skirt, or shorts. These bundles hit stores in early July, but they sell out fast, so plan to shop as soon as they’re available. Even if you miss out, other supermarkets like Asda, Tesco, and Sainsbury’s also offer competitive pricing on uniform essentials throughout the summer. - Look Out for Sales
Retailers like Marks & Spencer offer back-to-school promotions, such as 20% off school uniforms starting in early July. Tesco frequently offers 25% off for Clubcard holders, so be sure to check their clothing sales during the summer holidays. High-street retailers often discount their school uniform ranges during this period, so it’s worth shopping around. - Use Outlet Stores
Clarks and other stores have outlet locations that can save you up to 30% on school shoes, and sometimes as much as 70%. Even if you don’t live near an outlet, you can find great deals online, though you may need to measure and fit your child yourself. - Buy Second-hand
Preloved uniforms are an excellent way to save, especially on branded or logoed items. Many school PTAs offer second-hand uniform sales at school fairs or open days. You can also find bargains on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or local charity shops. Some areas even have uniform swap shops where you can pick up items for free. - Avoid Logos
Uniforms with school logos are often much more expensive than plain items. Check your school’s policy to see where logos are necessary and only buy them when required. For other pieces, choose generic, logo-free options to save money. - Look for Grants
If the cost of school uniforms is a financial strain, check with your local council to see if grants or financial aid are available. Many local authorities offer support, particularly in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and some parts of England. Schools may also offer interest-free payment plans for uniforms, allowing you to spread out the cost. - Make Uniforms Last Longer
Extend the life of your child’s uniform by buying items with plenty of growing room or choosing items with extendable hems. Attach high-quality name tags to prevent lost clothing and ensure that uniforms are washed and maintained according to care instructions. - Share Costs with Friends
Buying in bulk can sometimes reduce costs. Team up with other parents to split the cost of multipacks and share delivery fees. This is especially useful for things like shirts or trousers, where you may not need the entire pack yourself. - Buy Throughout the Year
If your child’s uniform still fits by the end of July, don’t feel pressured to buy everything new. Spread out your purchases throughout the year, especially for non-essential items like lunch boxes or school bags. These often go on sale at the start of the school year in September, offering significant discounts.
Conclusion
As we navigate this school year, it’s clear that outfitting children for school doesn’t have to break the bank. With great deals from supermarkets like Asda, Tesco, and Sainsbury’s, combined with smart money-saving strategies, many parents are successfully managing the costs of school uniforms.
Planning ahead and keeping an eye on sales ensures children are dressed and ready for the school year without overspending. If you found yourself struggling with uniform costs, don’t hesitate to reach out to your school or local council. Many have support systems in place to help families manage these expenses. After all, ensuring all children have access to proper school uniforms is vital for creating an inclusive educational environment.
Here’s to a successful school year ahead, filled with learning, growth, and the satisfaction of knowing you navigated the uniform-buying process like a pro!
