M&S and Next score top marks in battle for best school uniforms - with Poundland bottom

M&S and Next score top marks in battle for best school uniforms - with Poundland bottom Consumer group Which? has named, what it says are, the best places for parents to buy their kids' school uniforms - and one retailer is selling tops for less than 90p each Marks & Spencer and Next have come top of the class when it comes to school uniforms. Research by consumer group Which? named the pair best overall on a range of measures. The high street giants both scored 81%, with a maximum five stars for durability, comfort, practicality, overall look and value for money. The findings come as schools break up for the summer holidays and parents begin thinking about stocking up on essentials for the next academic year. School uniforms can be a big financial hit for many families, especially on the back of other household bills amid the ongoing cost of living squeeze. M&S and Next were both level pegging in the Which? research, followed by Sainsbury’s clothing brand Tu, at 78%, John Lewis (77%), and George at Asda on 76%. One happy M&S shopper said: “Items last the full school year and sizing is perfect, they also wash really well and seem stain resistant.” Another said: “Always buy the shirts from here, wash and wear well. Some have lasted four years between my two children.” Meanwhile at Next, one shopper said, “Washes well. No bobbling. Lasting the whole school year without needing replacement.” Next impressed so much, it was awarded the first Which? Best School Uniform provider endorsement. M&S would have qualified, but Which? said it had some concerns about the terms and conditions it offered in relation to returns. Bottom of the class was Poundland, which sells uniforms under the brand name Pepco, and got a customer score of 66%. While M&S and Next came out best for value for money, that is not exactly the same as price. Which? says it can be hard to properly compare school uniform providers on price because they tend to offer slightly different options and pack sizes. A pack of two polo shirts for a six to seven-year-old at M&S costs £6.50. Meanwhile, a two pack for a six year-old at Next is £6, £7 at John Lewis, but just £3 at Sainsbury’s and Tesco and only £1.75 at discount grocer Aldi. Reena Sewraz, Which? retail editor, said: “Next and M&S offer the best value for money in our research, scoring full marks for durability, so it could be worth considering if your budget stretches a little further. For those wanting a high-street compromise, Sainsbury’s, Asda and Tesco could also be a good bet, offering a strong balance of fit, appearance and price. “The new rules should make it easier for parents to shop around and save money. We found Aldi was selling the cheapest two-pack of school polo shirts we compared showing the savings families could make by shopping around.” Which? top uniform tips from parents - Take your child with you - there’s no point in buying beautiful clothing if your child won’t wear it - Consider extra features - reinforced knees, extendable hems and easy-iron fabric all come recommended - Watch for special offers - all the big stores tend to offer back to school sales or flash discounts - Look at the fastenings - lace-up shoes may look nice, but they are no good if your child can’t tie them - Buy multi packs - this will allow you to wash less frequently and also usually offers better value for money - Look for adjustable waistbands - great for making uniform fit better