Education Minister welcomes Assembly backing for School Uniforms Bill to cut costs for families

Education Minister Paul Givan has welcomed the Northern Ireland Assembly’s support for the School Uniforms (Guidelines and Allowances) Bill, which aims to reduce the financial burden of school uniforms for families.

The Bill, introduced by Minister Givan in February 2025, has now passed its Final Stage and will come into effect for the 2026/2027 academic year.

It marks a major policy shift in how schools across Northern Ireland manage uniform requirements, with new statutory obligations designed to ensure affordability and fairness.

Mr Givan described the passing of the Bill as a “strong and effective” step towards easing financial pressures on parents.

“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,” he said.

“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.”

Making School Uniforms Fairer and More Affordable

The new legislation provides a comprehensive framework for developing school uniform policies across Northern Ireland. It will require schools to consult with both parents and pupils, while ensuring that affordability, comfort, practicality, and value for money are central considerations.

Key provisions include:

• Mandatory consultation with parents and pupils on uniform policy.

• A focus on affordability, comfort, and practicality.

• Powers to cap the cost of uniforms or limit the number of branded items.

• A requirement that uniforms be available from multiple suppliers unless value for money can be proven.

• Extension of uniform grants to pupils in independent schools.

• A requirement for uniform guidelines to be reviewed at least every three years.

‘Putting Pupils and Parents First’

Minister Givan said the Bill delivers on his promise to ensure that uniform costs are not a barrier to education.

“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 issued to schools in the coming weeks to ensure the new rules are implemented in time for the next academic year.