How to cut school costs

THE Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) have outlined the following ways to help parents cut school costs:

1. Is the School Books Grant Scheme available in your area? For more information visit www. citizensinformation.ie

2. Ask the principal if the school offers a Book Rental Scheme.

3. Whether you are buying or renting books, find out if all costs need to be paid in one go - can you pay over the whole term?

4. If the school runs a second-hand book sale, buy there. Also, sell on what you no longer need and check if anyone you know has any of the books on the list.

5. Some school-book suppliers offer budget plans so you can pay over a number of weeks - does your local book-shop do this?

6. Do other family members or friends have children in the same school who may have outgrown their uniform.

7. Enquire if the school organises a second-hand uniform sale. If so, sell old items and buy new ones.

8. Watch the shops for special promotions on school uniforms. If the uniform is a plain colour, it may be possible to buy in the sales in general department stores.

9. It’s important to be aware early on of other costs - arts & crafts, photocopying, trips - come up over the year. See if your principal can give you an idea of what is to be paid and when - then you can plan for it.

10. Remember the voluntary contribution is voluntary - speak with the Principal if you have any difficulty. For advice on budgeting for back to school contact MABS Kerry on 0761 07 2190