AN ISLE of Wight parent has expressed his frustration over the price of uniform at his children's school — and how it is flying in the face of government guidance. 

Mark Garrety, of Godshill, says the The Island Free School is not allowing parents to dress their children in unbranded and generic uniform items, such as trousers, skirts and shirts, bought from ranges available at supermarkets and various retailers. 

Instead, unbranded and generic items must be purchased from designated uniform supplier, The Sports Shop, of Shanklin. 

In answer to this, the school says branded items are kept to a minimum, and are available pre-used.

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Under the school's uniform and appearance policy, compulsory items which can be bought elsewhere is limited to socks.

Optional items comprise a PE base layer top and leggings, tracksuit bottoms and sports socks.

"This is a breach of statutory guidance published in November, 2021, which is designed to help with affordability issues," said Mark. 

The guidance — available online — states that “parents should be able to purchase generic items of uniform from a range of retailers, giving them choice and value for money”.

"In my view, it is a real shame that the school has not simply embraced the new rules designed to make school uniform more affordable," said Mark.

"Particularly at a time when so many parents and carers are struggling with so many other cost-of-living pressures. 

"But I hope it will adjust its policy very soon, and come in line with standard practice, and indeed what is now the formal requirement for all state-funded schools.

"As an illustration, school trousers for boys cost £19.99 at the uniform shop for a single pair.

"They cost £15 at M&S for a pack of two, and £14 at Sainsbury’s for a pack of two. 

"Typically, a parent needs to buy at least two pairs, so that is a saving of £25 on trousers alone. 

"It is a similar position for skirts and shirts." 

A spokesperson for the Island Free School said: "The school works hard to ensure parents and their children are happy with all aspects of our school.

"The Island Free School is compliant with government regulations pertaining to uniform.

"The uniform policy is designed to ensure branded items are kept to a minimum and are available pre-used.

"The school runs a swap shop which is widely advertised to parents, including parents whose children may just be joining the school, which covers branded and non-branded items.

"Compulsory items — both branded and non-branded — are clearly referenced in the policy, and it is clear where these items can be bought, with many items being available from a range of retailers."