School uniform rules are changing: 12 ways to save including discounted Clarks shoes

The summer holidays are still in full swing but now is a great time to cash in on savings before the new school term.

School uniform rules are changing from September as part of plans to help reduce the burden on families dressing their children for back-to-school.

Schools will be more limited on how many branded items they can ask parents to buy and not ask for more than three as part of the uniform - or four item if one is a tie.

Parents should also be provide second-hand uniform options with clear details on how to buy them on their website.

From new shoes to PE gear, the cost of kitting out your child can all add up, so here are some more ways to save.

Check your school's uniform policy

Before buying anything, take a fresh look at your school's uniform list.

Many school's have updated their guidelines ahead of the new rules.

You could find your school has reducing the number of branded items they require so that you don't need as many items from specialist suppliers as in previous years.

At the same time, take a stock check of what you already have. Just because it's the new year, doesn't mean you have to buy everything new.

Shoes, tops and trousers could all still fit when they did a few weeks ago before the summer holidays.

Buy sooner rather than later

The best deals on school uniform are often available before the late August rush.

Shopping early gives you more choice of sizes, avoids paying extra for last-minute purchases and reduces the risk of popular items selling out.

Visit second-hand school uniform shops

When looking for branded items with the school logo look for second-hand uniform sales before buying new.

You can often pick up nearly-new blazers, jumpers and PE kits for a fraction of the original price.

As part of new rules, schools need to tell parents where they can turn for second-hand clothing so check your website.

It's also worth asking in class what's app groups.

Check the Clarks Outlet for school shoes

School shoes can be one of the biggest expenses.

If you love the quality and design of Clarks shoes, before paying full price, check its Outlet store online outlet, where previous-season styles are available at a discount.

The site also currently has an offer where you can buy two shoes and get a second half price which can be handy if you're buying for multiple kids.

Supermarkets are cheapest for uniform basics

Plain shirts, polos, trousers, skirts and PE clothing are often significantly cheaper in supermarkets than specialist schoolwear shops and other retailers.

Aldi and Lidl launched cheap uniform earlier in the summer, so there may be little choice remaining.

Tesco, Asda and Sainsbury's should be your next port of call for the best prices.

Measure children before shopping

Children can grow surprisingly quickly over the summer.

Measuring feet and checking clothing sizes before buying can prevent expensive returns or replacements.

If in doubt go for a little extra room so they can grow into clothes rather than finding they quickly become too small.

Save money on PE kits

Where schools allow it, generic sportswear needed for PE kits, such as trainers from supermarkets can be much cheaper than branded alternatives such as Adidas or Nike.

Check exactly the details to make sure you are within the rules before you buy

Repair instead of replace

A missing button, loose hem or small tear doesn't always mean a uniform item needs replacing.

Instead, grab your sewing kit and fix little imperfections.

These basic repairs extend the life of clothing and save money.

Check whether you're entitled to financial support

Some local councils, charities and schools offer help with uniform costs to eligible families.

It's worth checking what support may be available in your area.

Get in touch with your council if you are struggling, it may have extra support for families on low incomes.

Search Vinted and Facebook Marketplace

Local Facebook groups and school parent networks can be a great source of free or low-cost uniforms.

Parents often sell or give away outgrown items that are still in excellent condition.

You can also find good school shoes on second-hand sites such as Vinted.

Compare prices online

The same item can vary significantly in price between retailers.

Use a comparison tool such as Price Runner or Google Shopping to find the lowest prices.

Spending just a few minutes comparing prices online before buying can help save the pennies.

Look out for multi-buy deals

Many retailers offer discounts when buying packs of shirts, socks or trousers.

These deals can work out cheaper than purchasing individual items and give you plenty of spares for later in the year.

It's also worth looking out for special prices and promotions. For example, Tesco has been offering discounted Clubcard prices on uniform at select periods.