The Education (Guidance about Costs of School Uniforms) Act 2021 received Royal Assent yesterday (29 April), with statutory guidance due to be issued in the autumn.

The legislation will instruct schools to keep prices down and make sure contracts with uniform suppliers are competitive.

It will also include other measures such as considering high street alternatives and encouraging the use of second-hand uniform.

BEST educates nearly 5,000 young people in 10 schools located across Central Bedfordshire.

Chief Operating Officer Craig Smith said: “I welcome the announcement of this new legislation, which is good news for families. I am pleased to see the Government is listening and giving help to those that need it.

“All of the schools within BEST make their own arrangements for the supply of their uniforms, which are already kept under review so that families are not expected to fund excessive costs.

“This law will ensure our schools continue to give the best possible value for money.”