Soaring school expenses are pushing some children out of the classroom, a troubling new survey reveals. The Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) warns that without immediate government intervention to improve living standards, many youngsters face being “locked out of learning” due to poverty.
The CPAG poll, which gathered responses from over 1,700 secondary schools, exposes a harsh reality: nearly half of the students surveyed (47%) have missed school because they lacked the correct uniform or sportswear. Transport costs add to the burden, with 26% of students unable to afford fares, and 27% skipping school trips due to expense.
Children receiving free school meals are disproportionately affected, being more than twice as likely to be sent home for uniform issues. Two-thirds of UK secondary schools require branded uniform items, intensifying financial pressure on families. While the government has proposed limiting schools to demanding no more than three branded items – or four including a tie – CPAG insists this measure alone is insufficient.
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Kate Anstey, CPAG’s head of education, stated: “Children in poverty are missing out on a genuine school experience because they can’t afford to participate or even get to school. From meals and uniforms to mental health impacts, financial hardship is causing young people to miss school—effectively pricing them out of the education system.
“The government must do more to support families, including scrapping the two-child benefit cap and expanding eligibility for free school meals, so no child is locked out of learning.”
In response, a government spokesperson affirmed their commitment to reducing child poverty through comprehensive measures, including the Child Poverty Taskforce and forthcoming legislation to limit branded uniform requirements. Free breakfast clubs aimed at easing parental costs are also part of the plan, potentially saving families up to £500 annually.
The survey and subsequent debate raise pressing questions: has school become too costly for too many? Have you or someone you know struggled with the hidden bills of education? Share your experiences and join the conversation.