Simple Ways to Save: 8 ways to save on school expenses this year

The cost of educating our children isn't over once back-to-school expenses are paid for. They continue throughout the year.

There are school fees and incursions and excursions, school camps, food and travel costs... and then our kids run out of some of their stationary supplies, outgrow uniform items and sometimes need new shoes before the year is out.

The point is, school costs seem to never end and can place additional stress on families.

READ MORE: Common expenses most families forget to budget for

Instead of sitting back and worry about surprise expenses throughout the year, there are steps you can take to prepare for them.

Watch the video above.

Here are four ways to get on top of them.

1. Contact your child's school

Contact your child's school and ask for all expenses ahead of time. Start by checking out your child's school calendar, which is normally shared online.

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Then ask the school about which of these events come with an additional cost and budget that in so you are prepared.

It's also a good idea to set aside some extra cash for when unplanned events pop up.

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2. Reach out to parent groups

Reach out to parent groups and family members to swap items such as stationary, uniforms, shoes, bags and sporting equipment. Most will be happy to swap or will sell them to you for a small amount.

Or reach out to school social media groups on Facebook and ask about second-hand uniform items.

3. Ask about school extra-curricular activities

Find out all extra-curricular activities on offer at your child's school to save on fees.

Schools will often offer these for free or at a discounted rate, making them more affordable than private companies.

School may offer a range of activities including sport, music and even performances and they are often free or very affordable.

4. Talk to your children

Talk to your kids about snacks and lunches and have practice packing them themselves to save on lunch order and canteen costs.

Have this conversation about snacks and lunches every couple of months throughout the year as kids tend to change frequently when it comes to what they want to eat.

By having their preferences on hand, they will feel less inclined to buy food.

This episode of Simple Ways to Save was brought to you by ANZ's Brotherhood of St. Laurence Saver Plus program. Find out more by visiting the website.