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Up to £200 is available to low-income families to help cover the costs of school uniforms, sports kits, stationery and more.

The Welsh Government’s School Essentials Grant covers low income families with children in reception up to Year 11.

Families on lower incomes who receive certain benefits, as well as asylum seekers and children in care, can claim £125 per child per year to help with school costs.

Because of the extra cost families might face when their children start secondary school, £200 is available for pupils going into year 7.

Lynne Neagle, Wales’ cabinet secretary for education, said: “I know that the cost of the school day puts increased pressure on families. The School Essentials Grant is an incredibly important scheme which helps to reduce that pressure.

“All children and young people deserve equal access to education and this scheme helps to achieve that by removing the financial barriers faced by many families.”

The grant, which covers the 2024/25 academic year, is open until May 31, 2025. Visit the Welsh Government’s website to check eligibility.