Back-To-School Costs, Including Paying For Digital Devices, Causing Major Concerns For Parents

Wednesday, 5 August 2026 14:42

By Hannah Kelly

Just over one quarter of secondary (27 per cent) and 21 per cent of primary school parents said they have to use savings in order to meet back-to-school costs

Barnardos says rising back-to-school costs are putting further pressure on families.

The children's charity is calling on the Government to make affordable uniform options available across all schools, and make more families eligible for the back-to-school allowance.

Parents with children in secondary school are being asked to pay an average of more than €200 for a 'voluntary contribution' and classroom resources, while primary schools are asking for an average of €130 per pupil.

The survey found more than half of all parents stated they are worried about meeting these costs, with almost one in five (18 per cent) saying they were very concerned.

Just over one quarter of secondary (27 per cent) and 21 per cent of primary school parents said they have to use savings in order to meet back-to-school costs.

15per cent of secondary and one in ten (9 per cent) of primary school parents said they had to take a loan out or borrow from family and friends to meet school costs.

The cost of digital devices were also noted as a concern from parents, as 57 per cent said they had to pay for one at an average cost of €447.

Barnardos is calling on the government to prioritise three actions: review the use of digital devices and reduce costs for low income families; make affordable uniforms mandatory across all schools; expand eligibility to back-to-school allowance; and introduce voluntary contributions code of practice.