The School Years

Advice on managing school costs for both state and private education. Articles address fees, uniforms, trips, music lessons and comparing value between different schooling options.

Cutting the Cost of School Uniforms

Save money on school uniforms without compromising quality by using exchange events, secondhand shops and hand-me-downs.

Extra Costs for a Child's Education

Parents spend an average of £683 a year on primary school extras and £1,195 for secondary, so budget for uniform, supplies and other hidden costs.

Funding for Music Tuition

Help your child learn music without breaking the bank: here's what lessons actually cost and how to find affordable tuition.

Funding for School Trips

School trips cost money, but state schools can't charge for activities during the day, here's what they can ask parents to pay for.

Is It Worth Sending Your Child to a Private School?

Weigh up whether private school's higher fees and smaller classes are worth it for your family's circumstances.

Paying Private School Fees

Find practical ways to pay private school fees, from choosing selective years to using pension tax relief loopholes.

State School Costs

Parents spend around £1,300 a year per child on state school costs beyond tuition, including uniforms, trips, and meals.

The Cost of Going to a Private School

Private school fees in the UK range from £1,000 per term for nursery to £6,600 for boarding sixth form, varying by location and school type.

What Is Covered by the Cost of Private School Fees?

Private school fees cover staff salaries, utilities, and major building projects that keep independent schools running and improving.