Costing tool for back to school

By Tate Papworth

Children’s education charity Ardoch has released a guide to help ease financial stress for families at the start of the school year.

Ardoch chief executive Kylee Bates said it was a valuable guide to help families navigate a potentially stressful time.

“The aim of this guide is to help inform you about the different costs of education and assist you in managing these, including how you can reduce these costs and where you can find assistance,” Ms Bates said.

“We know that the start of a new school year can be financially stressful for many people. Particularly when there are often additional hidden costs for families when children start or return to school each year.

“We believe every child should have the opportunity to realise their potential through full participation in education.”

The School Costs Guide outlines the different costs associated with education including school fees, uniforms, textbooks, stationary, technology, camps, excursions and other items.

The resource has also been translated into Vietnamese and Arabic to better assist Brimbank’s diverse community.

The guide can be found online at www.ardoch.org.au/school-costs-guide/