Education Minister has today welcomed the
Assembly's support for the School Uniforms (Guidelines and
Allowances) Bill, which has now passed the Final Stage of the
legislative process.
The Minister introduced the Bill to reduce the costs of school
uniforms in February 2025 and, having passed the Final Stage, it
will come into operation in time for the 2026/2027 school year.
said: “Today sees the
School Uniforms Bill complete its legislative passage through the
Assembly. It is a strong and effective piece of legislation that
will make a real difference for families struggling with the cost
of school uniforms.
“The Bill places a statutory duty on schools to adhere to
new Departmental guidelines on school uniform policies, rather
than simply having to consider them. It also gives the Department
a legally enforceable power of direction should schools fail to
follow the guidelines.”
The School Uniforms Bill provides a comprehensive framework that:
- Requires schools to consult with parents and pupils when
developing uniform policies.
- Mandates that policies address affordability, comfort,
practicality and value for money.
- Allows for caps on costs or branded items.
- Ensures uniforms are available from multiple suppliers unless
value for money can be demonstrated.
- Extends uniform grant eligibility to pupils in independent
schools.
- Provides for reporting and review of the guidelines at least
every three years.
concluded: “Earlier this
year, I committed to taking action to ensure school uniforms are
not a barrier to education for children and young people. For far
too long, families have faced excessive costs for uniforms,
placing unnecessary financial pressure on households.
“This Bill has been thoroughly scrutinised and debated by
Assembly members, and I'm pleased to say it has now passed its
Final Stage. As promised, today I have delivered legislation that
puts pupils and parents first.
“It is about ensuring fairness and equity in school
uniform policies and making sure no pupil is disadvantaged
because of cost. I am proud to have brought forward legislation
that will deliver real change for families and I look forward to
seeing the positive difference it will make.”
Guidelines will be shared with schools in the coming weeks to
ensure they are actioned in time for the next school year.
