Barnardos has called on the government to extend the free school books scheme to secondary students.

The charity has released their 'Back to School' survey findings ahead for 2023. Two thirds of secondary school parents stated they are worried about meeting costs this year.

All primary school pupils will be able to avail of free schoolbooks, including workbooks and copies, for the first time starting in September. Barnardos Policy Manager Stephen Moffatt welcomes these changes but said the absence of the scheme in secondary schools is frustrating for parents.

He told Dublin Live: " We’ve always known that secondary school books are substantially more expensive than primary school ones. Parents are getting exasperated with the rising cost of books."

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Equally, parents feel more recognition should be given to second hand books. Stephen explained that families are often prevented from passing down books to younger children when publishers frequently update textbooks.

He said: "They can’t pass down a maths book to a younger sibling because there’s a new edition needed. That was a huge frustration we came across in the research- not being able to use second hand books. It's also a real waste from an environmental perspective."

Costs vary for sending a child back to school each academic year. Barnardos estimates it takes almost €1000 to equip an incoming first year student for school.

The charity also recommends that schools provide students with a low-cost uniform option. Crested uniforms often prove costly and were of concern amongst surveyed parents.

The free school books scheme was previously accessible in 100 Deis schools. Minister for Education Norma Foley decided in March to make the scheme accessible for all primary schools students starting this September.

The measure was introduced to minimise financial pressures on families. Where funding allows, additional classroom resources can be provided under the scope of the scheme.

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