What school expenses should I budget for beyond tuition?

Ask about application or assessment fees and registration or re-registration deposits. Check whether a deposit is credited towards tuition, so you account for the upfront payment without counting it twice in your annual budget. Read the refund and withdrawal conditions before paying.

For everyday supplies, confirm uniform and PE-kit requirements, shoes, stationery, textbooks and any required laptop or tablet. Ask whether digital subscriptions, device insurance, repairs or replacements cost extra, and which items can be purchased independently.

Check school-bus fees for your exact address, or calculate the cost of driving, parking and any childcare needed around school hours. Add lunches, after-school care and holiday programmes where relevant to your routine.

Depending on your child’s stage and choices, allow for examination fees, trips, sports equipment, music lessons and other paid activities. If additional learning support is proposed, request a written explanation of the provision and charges.

Ask the school to separate compulsory costs from optional services and show when each payment falls due.