The School Uniforms (Guidelines and Allowances) Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 has come into operation after receiving Royal Assent. Education Minister Paul Givan welcomed the legislation, stating it will lead to lower school uniform costs for families across Northern Ireland.

Statutory School Uniforms Guidelines have been laid in the Assembly and issued to schools, becoming mandatory immediately. School uniform policies for the 2026/27 academic year must comply with these guidelines.

The guidelines require grant-aided and independent primary and post-primary schools to consult parents and pupils on uniform policies, review them regularly, and publish rationales including costs and purchase locations. Branded items must be minimised, generic PE kits prioritised, and requirements must not prevent pupil participation due to affordability.

Minister Givan noted that school uniforms promote identity and school ethos but their cost is a key parental concern. He prioritised the issue upon taking office, aiming to ensure affordability, comfort, practicality, and sustainability in uniform decisions.

The guidelines are available on the Department of Education website.