Families on low incomes can now get help covering the cost of a new school uniform for children starting secondary school.
Wales’ Education Secretary Kirsty Williams AM has earmarked £700,000 of Welsh Government cash to fund the scheme.
The grant is available to pupils in Year 7 of maintained schools in Wales who are eligible for free school meals, and to pupils in special schools, special needs resource bases and pupil referral units who are aged 11 at the start of the school year and who are eligible for free school meals.
Ms Williams said: “Every child can appreciate wearing a school uniform is a powerful rite of passage, and an equally powerful statement of belonging.
“This fund is about making sure everyone in Wales, no matter what their background, has the opportunity to feel their best and thrive at school.
“I remain committed to closing the achievement gap between the pupils from our most deprived communities and those from more prosperous areas.”