The school website requirement to publish a school uniform policy was introduced in 2022, yet many schools still miss this information on their websites. The Department for Education (DfE) has issued statutory guidance on the cost of school uniforms, ensuring affordability and accessibility for all families.

This blog outlines what schools and academies must publish, why it’s important, and best practices for presenting school uniform information clearly.

Why Publish Your School Uniform Policy?

1. Compliance – Schools must publish an easily understandable uniform policy that follows DfE statutory guidance.
2. Transparency – Parents need clear information about what their child needs to wear and where to buy uniform items.
3. Affordability & Accessibility – Schools must consider uniform costs to ensure that no child is unfairly disadvantaged.

A well-structured school uniform page helps families plan, reduces financial pressure, and ensures that all pupils have equal access to appropriate clothing.

What Schools and Academies Must Publish?

Schools that require pupils to wear a uniform must publish a clear, accessible policy that includes:

• A list of required and optional uniform items.
• Seasonal uniform variations (e.g., summer vs. winter uniforms).
• Which items must be branded and which can be generic.
• Where uniforms can be purchased – including second-hand options.
• Retailer restrictions – If items must be bought from a specific supplier or if generic alternatives are allowed.

The policy must be in line with DfE statutory guidance, ensuring that uniforms are affordable for all families.

How to Publish School Uniform Information Effectively

1. Create a Dedicated Uniform Page

1. Clearly title the page “School Uniform” or “Uniform Policy”.
2. Ensure the page is easily accessible from the parent information or key policies section.

2. Use a Clear Table Format for Uniform Requirements

A table format makes it easier for parents to understand which items are compulsory, optional, branded, or generic.

Example Format:

Uniform Item	Required or Optional?	Branded or Generic?	Where to Buy?
White Polo Shirt	Required	Generic	Any retailer
School Blazer	Required	Branded	School Uniform Supplier
Grey Trousers/Skirt	Required	Generic	Any retailer
PE Kit	Required	Branded	School shop
Summer Dress	Optional	Generic	Any retailer

✔ If an item is optional or seasonal, state it clearly.

✔ If branded items are required, explain why and provide affordable alternatives.

3. Provide Details on Second-Hand Uniforms

The DfE guidance requires schools to offer a second-hand uniform purchasing option. Schools must clearly state:

1. Where second-hand uniforms can be bought.
2. How parents can donate pre-loved uniforms.
3. Any school-led schemes for uniform exchanges.

Example Statement:

“Families can purchase second-hand uniform items from our [Uniform Swap Shop], which runs at the end of each term. Donations are also welcome—please contact the school office for more details.”

4. Make It Clear Where Uniforms Can Be Purchased

Schools must specify:

✔ If uniform must be bought from a particular retailer.

✔ If generic alternatives are acceptable.

Example Statement:

“Our school blazer must be purchased from [Uniform Supplier], but other items such as trousers, skirts, and shirts can be bought from any high street or supermarket store.”

5. Keep the Policy Affordable & Accessible

1. Avoid unnecessary branded or specialist items where possible.
2. Clearly state that parents are not required to buy from a specific supplier unless absolutely necessary.
3. Provide options for affordable, high-quality alternatives.

Example Statement:

“We have worked with suppliers to ensure our uniform remains affordable. Where possible, non-branded alternatives are accepted.”

Example of Best Practice for School Uniform Information

School Uniform Policy – 2024

📄 Download Our Uniform Policy (PDF)

At [School Name], we want our uniform to be practical, affordable, and inclusive. Below is a full breakdown of our uniform requirements and purchasing options.

Uniform Requirements

Uniform Item	Required or Optional?	Branded or Generic?	Where to Buy?
White Polo Shirt	Required	Generic	Any retailer
School Blazer	Required	Branded	School Uniform Supplier
Grey Trousers/Skirt	Required	Generic	Any retailer
PE Kit	Required	Branded	School shop
Summer Dress	Optional	Generic	Any retailer

Second-Hand Uniforms

We encourage families to take advantage of our second-hand uniform scheme:

• Available at the Uniform Swap Shop, held at the end of each term.
• Parents can donate and collect items free of charge.
• Contact the school office for details.

Where to Purchase Uniform

1. Uniform items can be purchased from any high street store, except for:
2. School blazer, available from [Official Supplier].
3. PE kit, available from the school shop.
4. Parents are not required to purchase branded versions of polo shirts, trousers, or skirts.

For further details, view our Full School Uniform Policy or contact [School Office Contact].

Next Steps for Schools and Academies

• Ensure your uniform policy is published online and easy to understand.
• Use tables and clear wording to differentiate required, optional, branded, and generic items.
• Provide details on second-hand uniform availability to support affordability.
• Clearly state where uniform can be purchased and allow flexibility for families.

For further guidance, explore our School Website Requirements Guide.

Publishing clear, accessible, and affordable school uniform information helps families prepare with confidence while ensuring compliance with DfE statutory guidance.