Many schools are consider how to help with the cost of learning, particularly now that digital devices are so important. St Paul's RC Academy in Dundee now offers resources for home learning as well as covering any costs related to the curriculum and The Rainbow Centre in Inverclyde is tackling digital inequality for families.
To help reduce the cost of the school day Kirkintilloch High School, East Dunbartonshire, bought a big cabinet for stationery and other products students might need, and put it where everyone has access.
Giffnock Primary School in East Renfrewshire's Parent Equalities Group has been running a monthly pop-up uniform stall where parents and carers can donate pre-loved uniform and pick up items that they need.
These case studies describe how uniform policy which is mindful of costs and developed in collaboration with the whole school can really take the pressure off families.
Uniform banks can be a really good way of ensuring everyone has what they need, and how a school chooses to set them up can vary according to their context and the needs of families in their area. These case studies show how schools have taken different approaches to suit their setting.
Schools who offer a range of support for families living on lower incomes have also put thought into how this help can be promoted to boost uptake. Balwearie High School in Fife and Braes High School in Falkirk have both found multiple ways to get the message out to parents and carers.
