The head of Barnardos believes 'snobbery' is behind the choice of many schools to keep uniforms with crests, rather than opting for generic versions.

In the latest edition of their 'back to school' survey, the children's charity has found that 76% of primary schools, and 97% of secondary schools choose a specific uniform or tracksuit for their pupils.

They say the costs associated with returning to class are crippling too many families.

Barnardos says the government must do more to ensure equal access to education for all children, regardless of their parents' income.

In its survey, the childrens' charity found poorer families are unable to afford basics such as books and uniforms.

Barnardos says costs far outstrip the state's 'Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance'. They estimate it costs about €750 to send a young person to secondary school, while a pupil at primary will spend some €350.

However, it notes that book schemes and cheaper uniforms have gone some way towards easing the burden.

Barnardos Chief Executive Fergus Finlay told Newstalk Breakfast the government should get tough because many schools did not respond to the previous Education Minister's calls for change:

Originally published 08:49