Sending child to school costs more

Rising food prices have increased the price of school meals and packed lunches while petrol prices have made the school run more expensive, according to the report by the Centre for Economics and Business Research.

School costs rose 2.3% in the year to June, compared with an average 0.8% increase over the last 10 years. Parents now typically spend 7.8% more on schooling their children than they would have in 1998.

Lower income families, who have more children than wealthier families, are hardest hit, and spend a larger proportion of their income on school costs, the report for retailer Asda said.

School meals were the single most expensive item, costing parents £388 a year for each child. School uniforms cost £266 and PE kits an extra £207.

Excursions, such as day trips to museums and longer overnight stays, set parents back £79 per pupil. However there were considerable differences between primary and secondary school children.

The cost of the school run rose to an average £66 in the year to June, although this varied significantly depending on the circumstances of individual families, the report said.

Asda chief executive Andy Bond said: "It is important for retailers like us to understand the real financial pressures that are facing UK families, particularly when families do not have the choice to opt out, like sending their children to school."

Last week Asda unveiled what it called the cheapest ever school uniform priced at £4. Marks & Spencer released a uniform for £6.50 for children up to the age of six the week before.

Schools Secretary Ed Balls said: "Uniforms can help to develop the right mindset among pupils, instilling pride and supporting positive behaviour and discipline. But it's vital this doesn't discriminate against anyone, so school uniforms must be reasonably priced. We are clear that schools should ensure uniforms are affordable and I'm pleased that retailers are helping to make this happen."