FAMILIES struggling with the rising cost of living are being helped by schools in Fife, councillors have heard.

Blazer banks, new school ties and free toiletries are just some of the initiatives which were highlighted at last week's council Education Scrutiny Committee.

Some locations have even extended services to offer clothes washing, laundry products, and home cleaning products, while others removed costs related to the curriculum prior to Scottish Government funding being made available, which made this possible for all secondary schools.

This means that students aren't charged for resources in practical courses like Home Economics and Design Technology, or for things like specialist music tuition.

Cllr Kathleen Leslie, committee convener, said: "We all agree that every child should have the same access to quality education and the family’s income should not have any impact on this.

"We want all children to have the same chances in life. We know that is not the case, however, and poverty within families and communities can have a real impact on a child’s education."

The programmes were discussed following a report on the Attainment Scotland Fund 2021-22, which includes Pupil Equity Funding (PEF) and the Cost of the School Day.

Cllr Leslie added: "Both the Attainment Scotland Fund and the PEF grants are making a difference within the schools which are involved.

"To add to this Fife Council’s commitment to lowering or eradicating the hidden costs in the school day is also making a difference to families who are struggling.

"Costs come through things like school trips, materials for practical subjects, uniforms and PE kits or music lessons.

She continued: "It is very interesting to see how individual schools have tackled the cost of the school day and the innovative ideas they have had to do so.

"There is some really good practice highlighted in the paper before us today and I’d be good to see these ideas being shared and rolled out across our schools."

The accessibility of class trips has also been considered while Active schools are working with local partners to provide free after school clubs.

Every young person who needs one for their education has also been provided with a chromebook device to help them complete schoolwork at home.

Councillors further heard of the universal offer of food during holidays from Cafe Inc, which runs across Fife, and the availability of free water and a snack for all pupils sitting exams.

Additional food is also provided through breakfast clubs or carts and some centres have also introduced resource boxes in each classroom with toiletries and treats.