Schools urged to alleviate education costs

It follows a survey carried out by the children's charity which revealed that 'back-to-school' costs can reach up to 800 euro for secondary school students and 400 euro for primary school students.

June Tinsley is Head of Advocacy with Barnardos.

She says parents should avail of state supports if they are eligible for them or if not contact the school in order to try and reach some sort of deal over the expenses associated with sending children to school.