South African parents and guardians are facing the financial reality of preparing their children for the start of the school year. With many family budgets already over-stretched, the added expenses can be overwhelming.
The cost of essentials adds up quickly – fees, uniforms, textbooks, and stationery, among other items – and this is compounded by additional costs for sporting equipment, tech, transport, class outings, and extra lessons.
According to research by the Old Mutual Group, putting a child through the public school system in 2023 cost roughly R651 313, with private schooling costing R1 901 549 on average.
Public primary school fees were around R24 408 a year, and private primary schools cost around R71 496. A government high school cost approximately R36 072 per year and a private high school cost around R105 084.
Annual increases add to the financial burden. Overall, education was 6.3% more expensive in 2024 than in 2023, according to Statistics South Africa. This exceeded the 5.7% annual increase in 2023 and remained the highest since 2020, when the rate was 6.4%.
Sarah Nicholson, operations manager of JustMoney.co.za, a platform that helps South Africans make good money choices, says, “The high cost of schooling can be tough for many families, but it’s important to remember that education is one of the best investments you can make in your child’s future.
“Planning, prioritising, and creativity can help you start the school year right, and set your child up to succeed, without breaking the bank.”
Practical tips to lighten the load
- Plan ahead. Write down everything your child needs and make essentials a priority to avoid unnecessary expenses.
- Compare prices. Shop around for school supplies and take advantage of deals, discounts, and loyalty programmes.
- Check second-hand stores and online platforms. Search for books, uniforms, and sports equipment that are still in good condition. If your child has outgrown school uniforms and other necessities, sell or swap these items.
- Label everything. Personalise school supplies and uniforms to reduce the risk of items getting lost or stolen.
- Assess technology needs. Source from outlets offering learner discounts, or consider a bulk buy with other parents. Avoid overinvesting in tech your child doesn’t need immediately, as devices rapidly become outdated.
- Keep receipts. Track every school-related expense. Knowing where your money goes will help you budget accurately.
- Budget for fees. Many schools offer options to spread payments over the year, which can ease financial strain. Investigate bursaries, scholarships, or fee exemptions offered by the school or local organisations.
- Assess extra-curricular activities. Choose activities wisely and limit participation to what suits your budget.
- Monitor subscriptions. If your child has been using educational apps or tools, evaluate their usefulness and cancel subscriptions that no longer add value.
- Use free resources. Explore online platforms for educational materials and support, instead of spending money on costly learning tools.
- Communicate with teachers. Reach out early to discuss any specific requirements or additional help you may need for your child. This will allow you to factor in costs for extra lessons or counselling.
- Save on transport. Consider carpooling with other parents or investigating more affordable – but safe – private or public transport.
- Organise lunchboxes. Plan simple, nutritious meals at home rather than relying on tuck-shop items. Buy food in bulk and prepare snacks in advance.
- Set up a savings fund. Start a small, recurring savings plan for future school costs. A small amount saved each month will reduce pressure next year.
- Plan for emergencies. Set aside a little extra for unexpected costs such as last-minute projects or sports equipment. This will help you avoid dipping into your monthly budget.
“Being organised, exploring cost-saving options, and seeking support where needed will set your family up for a smoother start to the school year. Remember, small steps can make a big difference,” says Nicholson.
“A solid financial footing sets the foundation for success, for both parents and learners. A little planning today can create lasting peace of mind throughout the year.”
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and are not necessarily shared by Moonstone Information Refinery or its sister companies. The information in this article does not constitute financial planning or investment advice that is appropriate to every individual’s needs and circumstances.
