Parents have criticized a school’s decision to change its uniform at a time when people are struggling with the cost of living.
Pupils at King’s Oak Academy in Kingswood, Bristol, are due to wear the new uniform in September, but some parents said they could not afford new clothes.
“We will literally choose to heat our homes, feed our children, or clothe our children,” Abi said.
The school said it would help those struggling to pay for uniform costs.
Hannah has two children, ages seven and four, in King’s Oak and said she felt it was the wrong time to ask parents to pay for new uniforms.
“They’ve really put a lot of pressure and stress, unnecessary stress, on parents at a time when we least need it,” she said.
“It doesn’t take into account that parents have old-school things that can save a lot of money,” she added.
Joanne said she was also unhappy with the change, as she spent money on her 12-year-old son Reuben’s outgoing school uniform.
“It’s just frustrating. You keep buying new uniforms just for the sake of it,” she said.
Government guidelines say schools should consider family finances when making uniform changes, and new rules aimed at making school uniforms more affordable are due to be introduced this fall.
Kings Oak headmistress Katherine Ogden said the school had “certainly acted in accordance with government guidance” and most families were happy with the changes.
“For those families who are struggling with the transition, we are working to reduce the cost of changing uniforms and we will simply give them the uniform to help them make the transition if necessary,” Ms. added Ogden added.
But Hannah, 39, said: “I don’t want to have to invoke poverty.
“I want to be in a position where I can even afford the uniform.”
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