Children in Direct Provision have had to use a parent's phone to stay in touch with teachers

Barnardos say the average cost of the basics needed for a senior infants pupil is €330, a fourth-class pupil is €365, and a first-year pupil is €735. Picture: iStock

With the basic cost of sending a child to school remaining too high for many, a nationwide appeal is seeking school supplies to thousands of children living in direct provision.

Back-to-school is a challenging time for many families in direct provision, as the weekly living allowance they receive is €38.80 per adult and €29.80 per child.