School uniforms are twice as expensive as in supermarkets.

According to The Observer, parents in the UK often have to buy uniforms with school logos (called school uniforms) at double the price of similar clothes in supermarkets and stores.

Despite government guidance issued in 2011 requiring schools to reduce costs, The Observer reported that state schools were requiring parents to buy school uniforms such as jackets, sweaters, ties and tracksuits . Some schools even required parents to buy five sets of uniforms.

Specifically, a sports uniform polo shirt for 9-11 year old students costs around 11 pounds (nearly 360,000 VND). Meanwhile, similar polo shirts outside are sold for prices ranging from 5-9 pounds.

Similarly, school uniform jackets cost around £35, compared to as low as £16 in supermarkets or shops.

Research published by The Children's Society in 2023 found that parents spend an average of £422 a year on secondary school uniforms and £287 on primary school uniforms.

“The Government has provided clear guidance to reduce the cost of school uniforms, but families are still having to pay high prices for school uniforms at the start of the new academic year (which starts in September). We are asking schools to reduce the number of compulsory uniforms they are required to buy,” said Mark Russell, chief executive of The Children’s Society.

In response to the proposal, a spokesman for the UK Department of Education said the ministry would consider introducing regulations limiting the number of school uniforms parents are required to buy - to a maximum of three.

Additionally, The Children's Society recommends that schools hold regular tenders to find a garment company that offers reasonable prices.

The UK government has asked schools to cut fees to ease financial pressure on parents at the start of the new academic year.

The School Uniform Manufacturers Association expressed concern that parents would turn to what it called "cheap, unbranded, poor quality" uniforms. Matthew Easter, chairman of the association, said the uniforms produced by its member companies were high quality, "completely distinctive, designed to be washed and worn many times".

The results of a survey by the Association of School Uniform Manufacturers show that one in 10 teachers believe that uniforms contribute to creating an equal environment and “enhancing community awareness and discipline”.

In France, students do not have to wear uniforms. However, some schools are piloting a program that requires all students to wear uniforms.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/anh-gia-dong-phuc-nha-truong-gap-doi-ngoai-sieu-thi-185240901153209739.htm