SCHOOLS with bespoke uniforms have come under fire as recession hit families are forced to bypass cheap supermarket deals.

Almost one fifth of parents can only get uniforms from one supplier or via the school itself, according to new research by the Local Government Association.

And with PE kits, stationery, coats and bags bumping up the bill further, many families are struggling to cope with the financial burden.

In South Lakeland, a number of schools, including Queen Elizabeth School in Kirkby Lonsdale, Dallam School in Milnthorpe and Queen Katherine School in Kendal, have school specific blazers, sweatshirts and other garments.

Yet, they argue their uniforms are affordable, practical and the best option for students. Stephen Wilkinson, head teacher of QKS, said the introduction of school polo shirts and sweatshirts had been well received by pupils, parents and staff.

Both the sweatshirt, which costs £10, and the polo shirt, which costs £8, boast the school logo and colours and are only available at the school.

“The logos are very simple, which has kept prices down,” said Mr Wilkinson. “In real terms the price of our uniform has actually dropped year-on-year, which is largely due to the quantity we order and the fact we have developed a good relationship with a local uniform supplier.”

He argued uniforms were important as they create a sense of identity and prevent children from being victimised over the make or style of their clothes.

“I do think there are schools that are moving towards expensive uniforms, which is not what comprehensive schools are about,” he added. “They should be accessible to everyone.”

To tackle the issue, the LGA is calling on schools to use at least two suppliers, make logos available to sew on to cheaper garments, and hold second-hand uniform sales.

At Dallam School these avenues are already open to parents.

Head teacher, Steve Holdup, said parents could shop around for the majority of the uniform, with only the blazer and tie specific to the school.

“Parents can opt to just buy the school badge which can be sewn on to a blazer from somewhere like Marks and Spencer,” he said. “Although I do think we offer the best deal, as we are able to sell the blazer at cost price.”

Highlighting the PTA school uniform recycle shop, he continued: “I think it becomes a problem if the only place you can buy a uniform is from a gentleman’s outfitters, which I don’t think is the case with schools in South Lakeland.”