3 Big Changes To Know About Before Schools in England Go Back

The summer holidays are over for kids in Scotland, with the rest of the UK set to follow suit at the start of September.

If you’re based in England, you’ve probably already been thinking about what you need to buy ahead of the first day back: shirts, trousers, ties, jumpers, bags, shoes, PE kits, lunch boxes, stationery, the list goes on.

But if your school relies on branded items, there’s a new change coming into effect that might save you some cash – the UK government estimates it could save parents up to £50 per child.

In fact, September will mark the beginning of three key changes across schools in England, which will impact parents and pupils. Here’s what you need to know.

As of September, the UK government said schools in England must limit the number of compulsory branded items of uniform and PE kit to three items or fewer. For secondary and middle schools this rises to four or fewer, if one item is a tie.

Andrew Wilson, CEO at Oak Multi-Academy Trust, told HuffPost UK the new regulations “allow for more flexibility regarding where families shop for uniforms”.

But he advised parents to review their child’s school uniform policy (usually available on school websites) prior to purchasing uniforms, especially when deliberating which branded and non-branded items are needed.

“Simply, ‘a school shirt’ does not automatically mean it complies with the uniform policy of that specific school,” he said. “No one likes to deal with conflicts at the beginning of the year over an item that could have been easily researched prior to purchase.”

The CEO also noted there are additional considerations for students with Special Education Needs (SEN) and/or sensory issues. “For example, for certain students, the type of material, seams, waistbands, etc., can greatly affect their comfort level and ability to focus in class,” he added, urging families of SEN children to reach out to their child’s school as soon as possible to discuss this.

“They may be able to provide recommendations for local vendors or alternative clothing options that have proven successful with other students,” he continued. “Additionally, specialised sensory-friendly schoolwear products are available through online stores.”

Another huge change is that all schools in England will be required to be mobile phone-free environments by default this September. While plenty of schools have already implemented phone bans to varying degrees, Wilson noted parents will likely see “increasing clarity around having a phone-free day in school”.

Some schools will encourage kids to keep phones locked away throughout the school day (sometimes in pouches or lockers), while others request phones to be handed in to teachers first thing.

“Many schools will not feel much different since they have already restricted phones, however, come September, it is expected nationally that students will not be allowed to use their phones during classes, transitions, breaks or lunch,” said Wilson.

“Parents should confirm with their child’s school, as each school will have its own process for enforcing this rule.” (There may be exceptions based upon individual circumstances.)

Siobhan Meredith, executive director of education at the Ted Wragg Trust, urges parents to talk to their children about any changes to phone expectations ahead of their return to school.

Wilson agrees with this approach: “It is far less stressful for the young people when parents and educators send the same clear message about when their phones can and cannot be used.”

Lastly, Meredith highlighted another important change happening this September: the expansion of free school meals to children in all households receiving Universal Credit.

According to the Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG), more than half (55%) of parents whose children will be eligible are unaware they qualify for the free lunches. You can apply here.

In England, all children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 in state schools also receive free school meals.

Here’s to a (hopefully) seamless start to school!