THE latest annual pulse survey released by national children’s education charity The Smith Family, has revealed almost 60 per cent of families who responded have struggled to afford essential school items for their children this year, with the majority attributing this to the rising cost of living and increased school expenses.

More than one in six of the 2454 survey respondents said family financial pressures had also made the school year difficult for their child.

The Smith Family’s chief executive officer Doug Taylor said it was concerning to see the impact financial difficulties have on a child’s education.

“This is the third Christmas in a row the cost-of-living crisis has weighed on families already experiencing disadvantage,” Mr Taylor said.

“Unfortunately, many children will be looking back on their school year having tried their very best, but the challenges faced by their families have likely affected their ability to achieve their full potential this year.

“Today in Australia, one in six children are growing up in poverty, limiting their ability to make the most of their education. Everyone is feeling the effects of the cost-of-living crisis, but it is not felt equally.

“The families we support are continually having to make hard decisions between paying for essentials like rent and groceries, and school essentials like uniforms and laptops. The latter costs can’t be prioritised when more essential needs must be met, and children are missing out as a consequence.”

The Smith Family is launching its 2024 Christmas Appeal, hoping to raise $4.91 million to provide more children in need with its tailored out-of-school learning and mentoring programs.

“Our evidence-based education programs are proven to help children catch up and keep up with their learning. For example, our student2student reading program helped 96 per cent of participants to improve their reading this year.

“With the right support at the right time, we hope that all students can stay motivated and engaged at school and go on to complete Year 12,” Mr Taylor said.

“We know that all parents want their children to do their best at school. And our pulse survey shows that the families we work with are extremely proud of their children, particularly when it comes to their progress, effort and attitude to learning.”

Speaking about The Smith Family’s support, one parent said “I am able to lift a load off my shoulders and have a little room to breathe and focus on my children’s progress in school and grades.”

To donate to The Smith Family’s Christmas Appeal, visit their website.