School supplies cost £39 per week: how to save on your child’s education.

According to The Sun: Preparing your finances for the start of the new school year

As the new school term approaches, it’s worth getting your finances in order for the return to school.

According to the Child Poverty Group, the average cost of raising a child at secondary school is £39 a week, while for children in primary school it’s £19.

So try to make savings wherever you can. Here’s how to ensure that all your expenses are justified.

DON’T BUY TWICE: Save on expensive shopping sprees before the school year starts by checking what you already have.

Children may demand new pens and pencils, but you probably already have these at home.

The same goes for lunch boxes and water bottles. Check for leaks and then use them for another year.

LABEL EVERYTHING: Without labels, school supplies can become a drain on your finances.

Use labels or a marker to write their name on all the items they take to school.

Label smaller items, such as pens and colored pencils, with a dot of nail polish to make them easy to identify.

PLAN YOUR ROUTE: The journey to school also costs money.

If public transport is your only option, check the most cost-effective route in advance and find out which travel tickets offer the best deals.

STOCK UP THE FREEZER: Planning what you’ll put in lunch boxes will help reduce costs.

Ready-made meals usually cost more. However, buying in bulk and dividing them into smaller portions will save you money.

Batch cooking energy bars, such as simple cereal bars, oatmeal muffins or mini-egg muffins, will give you a great head start. You can freeze them and thaw them overnight before you need them.

START SAVING MONEY: The school term comes with many hidden costs, from school trips to sponsorship outings.

Start saving a few pounds each week.

This way, you won’t have to dig deep at the last minute. Your bank may offer savings accounts. If not, set aside cash at home. If you’re going to struggle to pay for expensive trips, ask your school if any financial support is available.

The school year is starting, but that doesn’t mean your finances have to be in disarray. Savings and careful planning can easily help you prepare for school expenses and save money during this stressful time. Take advice from experts and ensure a smooth start to the new school year.