Your guide to switching uniform supplier and when to do it

If you’re considering switching your school uniform supplier, now – April to May is the perfect time to start planning, even if you’re not ready to make a change until after the busy back-to-school period.

At Schoolwear Solutions, we’ve worked with hundreds of schools across the country. From Multi-Academy Trusts to individual primaries, we’ve supported leadership teams through uniform transitions that are smooth, affordable, and totally aligned with their values.

Here’s why planning a switch before October is key and how to do it without disrupting the new academic year.

Why schools don’t switch uniform supplier in summer

July and August are too late. Parents are already buying uniform, sizing appointments are booked, and production is underway. Changing supplier during this window could cause stress for families, delays in delivery, and chaos in the school hallways come September.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t get ahead of the curve.

Here’s your month-by-month guide for a seamless uniform switch

April – May: Early Exploration

Review your current supplier – are they still meeting expectations on quality, value, service?

Begin initial conversations with potential partners like us.

Ask for documentation on ethical sourcing, sustainability, pricing packages, and school support.

June – July: Stakeholder Engagement

Start discussing ideas with SLT, governors, and key staff.

We can provide you with sample garments, case studies, and help present to governors.

Gather early parent feedback, especially around affordability and access.

August – September: Pause for Back-to-School

Let the busy period run its course. This isn’t the time for big changes—but it is the time to reflect.

We’ll stay in the background and prepare tailored proposals.

October: Ready to Decide

Once the new term is up and running, we’re here to pick things up.

Site visits, planning uniform policy tweaks, and implementation support can all start now without the summer pressure.

Ethical, Practical, Proven

We’re proud to offer, blazers made from recycled plastic, second-hand and pre-loved programmes, pupil Premium and flexible cost-spreading support as well as transparent tender support and compliance guidance.

We’re ready when you are

You don’t have to switch uniform supplier now but starting the conversation gives you and your school the power to plan well in advance.

Let’s chat now, so come October, you’re not scrambling for Plan B—you’re confidently executing Plan A.

Email us directly:

Ollie Buchanan on: oliver.buchanan@newplansolutions.co.uk

Scott Glover on: scott.glover@newplansolutions.co.uk

Or visit schoolwearsolutions.co.uk