Cost of the School Day calendar
Helping schools to identify possible cost barriers during the academic year, and think about alternatives to make sure all children and young people can fully participate in education.
For each term, we’ve listed some of the key school events or activities where families might incur costs. We've also included some ideas and tips to provide inspiration for schools looking to ensure that they are being inclusive and lowering costs for families.
Take care to identify any times of the year when families are being asked to spend more money or may be under increased pressure.
How to use the calendar
Use our calendar to explore with pupils and families all the different events and days that happen at your school and how costs can be reduced. Develop your own calendar to reflect your school year.
Think through these key questions:
- Which events and activities mean families need to spend money?
- Which are most important for your school?
- Are they well spaced out?
- How much money is being asked for?
- How can we make sure all students can take part in the events and activities?
Find out how other schools have created their own Cost of the School Day calendar.
Autumn term 2026/2027
Harvest, Black History Month, Halloween, Diwali, Hannukah and Christmas - ideas to help families with the costs of all these events and more.
Spring term 2026/2027
Burns Night, LGBTQ+ History month, Ramadan, World Book Day, International Women's Day, Eid al-Fitr and Easter - get ideas on how to make all these more affordable for families on low incomes.
Summer term 2026/2027
Earth Day, Passover, work experience, exams, Mental Health Awareness Week, Diwrnod Seren a Sbarc, Pride, summer trips and sports day - how to plan to make all these inclusive for all learners.
