PARENTS in Oxfordshire face a potential bill of hundreds of pounds to kit out their children for school in the coming year.

New research by Nationwide building society showed British parents will spend an average of £186.24.

Some secondary schools in the county have bills that can top more than £100 for uniform and sports clothing.

A full compliment of branded sports gear and uniform at The Oxford Academy in Littlemore can cost up to £145 while at Oxford Spires Academy in East Oxford parents may have to spend up to £82.50.

Safia Baker, whose son Usman is set to start year eight at Cheney School in Headington, said: "The prize of blazers is extortionate and at Cheney you have to order online.

"I think you should be able to go in and try them on.

"I agree that you have to have the uniform but it should be reasonable and cost-friendly."

Primary school costs tend to be much lower, with parents at Rose Hill

Primary School in Oxford only obliged to spend £8 on a red sweatshirt with the school logo.

Other parts of the uniform, such as trousers and a polo shirt, can be bought from any supplier.

Have you been affected by high uniform costs?

If so email luke.sproule@oxfordmail.co.uk or call 01865 425422.