19th June 2026
Dear Parent/Carer,
RE: Free School Meals Update and Uniform Standards
As part of our ongoing focus on our school values, this week we are highlighting Integrity—doing the right thing, being honest, and following through on our responsibilities as a community. With this in mind, we would like to share an important update regarding Free School Meals, alongside a reminder of our uniform expectations, so that we continue to act with integrity in how we support all students.
Free School Meals
The government has announced an expansion to Free School Meal eligibility, meaning that all households in receipt of Universal Credit will qualify. This change will come into effect from September 2026. For families who are eligible, this could mean a saving of up to £495 per year per child on school lunches. We recognise that this will make a meaningful difference to many households and help ensure that students are well supported each day.
In the spirit of integrity—ensuring that all families access the support available to them—we strongly encourage you to check your eligibility and apply if appropriate using the link below:
Online Free School Meals
You can also read more here:
Expanding free school meals: what parents need to know – The Education Hub
School Uniform Expectations
We are proud of how our students represent Erdington Academy, and wearing the correct uniform is an important way in which students demonstrate integrity, pride, and respect for themselves and the school community. Full details of our uniform expectations can be found here: Uniform – Erdington Academy
We would like to draw particular attention to expectations regarding school trousers, which will be more clearly defined from September 2026 to ensure consistency and alignment with our standards. School trousers should be tailored trousers, giving a smart, professional appearance suitable for a school environment.
They should:
- Have a straight or gently tapered leg
- Be made from trouser-weight woven fabric (e.g. polyester/viscose blend or wool mix)
- Have a fixed waistband and be worn on the waist (with a belt if appropriate)
- Fit neatly without being excessively tight or overly loose
They should not:
- Be made from thin, stretchy or clingy fabrics (e.g. leggings-style materials)
- Be flare, bell-bottom or exaggerated wide-leg styles
- Resemble leggings, jeggings or fashion trousers
- Be skin-tight or designed for casual or leisure wear
For clarity, trousers that resemble leggings or fashion flares (even if marketed as “school trousers”) are not suitable for school. We appreciate your support in helping students meet these expectations and attend school ready to learn.
Planning Ahead
Several retailers are currently offering school uniform promotions which may help with planning ahead:
- Sainsbury’s have 20% off school uniform and school footwear
School Uniform | School Clothes & Shoes | Tu Clothing
- ASDA are running a similar event with 20% off until 21st This sale, however, excludes footwear.
School Uniform Shop | School Clothes & Shoes | George at ASDA
- TESCOs school uniform sale is predicted to start on 20th July (25% off).
- M&S uniform sale is predicted to start on 7th July (20% off).
- Lidl and Aldi’s school uniform bundle sale (usually suitable for ages 3-11) is predicted to start on 28th June (20% off).
Our authorised suppliers for branded items are:
- Clive Mark: clivemark.co.uk
- Trutex Erdington: crestedschoolwear.co.uk
In line with government guidance, we act with integrity in keeping uniform affordable and accessible and therefore limit the number of branded items required. These are:
- Blazer
- Tie
- Branded sports polo shirt
All other items may be purchased from a retailer of your choice, provided they meet our expectations. If you are unsure whether an item is suitable, please contact your child’s Head of Year before purchasing—we are always very happy to help.
Pre-loved Uniform Donations
Finally, we would like to sincerely thank families who have already supported our pre-loved uniform wardrobe. Your generosity reflects the strong sense of community we value. We continue to welcome donations of clean, good-quality items such as blazers, ties, skirts and trousers. These can be brought to reception and will be made available to support other families.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support in helping us uphold our shared values and standards.
Yours sincerely
Mrs K Wright
Vice Principal