Parents should face lower back-to-school bills from next month as new rules limiting the number of compulsory branded uniform items come into force.
From September, government schools will be allowed to require no more than five branded items across their uniform and PE kits.
Schools will also be expected to make affordability a priority and ensure families have access to second-hand uniforms. The rules will not apply to private and fee-paying schools.
The changes follow a study by the Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority which found that branded clothing accounted for almost 40% of school uniform requirements and could cost families up to £294 per child.
When the watchdog surveyed 38 schools in 2023, all but one had a uniform policy and the cost of compulsory branded items ranged from £115 to £294 per pupil. Some schools required as many as 11 branded items.
JCRA chief executive Tim Ringsdore said: “When we carried out our school uniform market study, families were already facing rising inflation and pressure on household budgets.
“Those pressures have not gone away. As families prepare for the new school year, limiting the number of compulsory branded items should make a real difference.
“Branded items can help give schools a sense of identity and belonging, but the new policy strikes a better balance between that identity and keeping costs manageable for parents.”
The Jersey changes come into force at the same time as tougher restrictions are being introduced in England.
From 1 September, English schools will generally be legally restricted to three compulsory branded items across uniform and PE kit. Secondary and middle schools can require a fourth item where one of the four is a tie.
The limit was introduced through the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026, with UK government guidance stressing that the cost of uniforms should never become a barrier to a child attending or participating in school.
UK government estimates suggest requiring fewer branded items could save some parents around £50 per child during the back-to-school shop.
Jersey’s policy was first announced in December 2023 by then Education Minister Inna Gardiner following recommendations from the JCRA.
As well as considering measures being adopted elsewhere, particularly in the UK, the regulator recommended that schools regularly review contracts and supply arrangements and that clearer guidance be developed around competitive tendering for uniform suppliers.
Education Minister Deputy Catherine Curtis said reducing costs for parents was “an important part of ensuring access to education for all”.
She added: “I commend my predecessor, Inna Gardiner, and the JCRA for their work in this area.
“I am pleased the JCRA’s recommendations have been carried forward into Jersey’s school uniform policy, setting a strong standard for social and economic value.”
