Teen years at school the most expensive for parents

Teen-years at school are the most expensive for parents, according to a study published by Bank of Ireland Life today.

The company says that, while the arrival of a first baby provides the biggest shock to parents financially, the secondary-school years are the most expensive of all.

Education costs during these years amount to almost €40,000 per child, with essentials ranging from school uniforms, books and lunch money to extra-curricular activities.

Teenagers also desire mobile phones and phone credit, along with the latest branded clothes and hi-tech computer games.