THE SCHOOL Essentials Grant, funded by Welsh Government, is able to help people on low incomes to cover the cost of a several different school items…and not necessarily ones you might think of.

The grant available for children entering year 7 is £200 and for children in all other school years, from reception through to year 11, the amount is £125.

Wrexham Cllr Phil Wynn, Lead Member for Education, said: “The School Essentials Grant supports families on low incomes and can be used towards various essentials, so things like school uniform and sports kits, but also other important things that children need during their studies.

“Whether it’s a device such as a laptop or tablet, or something specific they need for a certain subject, the grant is there to help cover some of these costs.

"I encourage qualifying parents and carers to apply for this grant which is invaluable help for low income families during a continued period of cost of living challenges."

Any child eligible for free school meals, attending school in Wrexham, and in the following year groups is eligible for the grant: Entering reception class in primary school, entering school years 1 to 11, in a special needs school.

All looked after children are also eligible, regardless of their free school meals status.

Children receiving free school meals due to transitional protection arrangements will NOT be eligible for the grant. Children who are in reception class in September, and only receiving meals under the universal offer, also will NOT be eligible.

Applicants have until May 3, 2025 to submit an application. You can add multiple children to the same application. 

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If your application is accepted the grant is paid by BACS Transfer to your bank account.

The grant can help you to pay for:

  • School uniform

  • School sports kit

  • Uniform for wider activities (for example sports, scouts and guides)

  • Equipment (such as school bags and stationery)

  • Specialist equipment where new curriculum activities begin (such as design and technology)

  • Equipment for out of school hours trips (such as waterproofs for outdoor learning)

  • Laptop or tablet device