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Free education: A right on paper, a struggle in practice

August 2025

Each new school year rekindles the illusion of free education for all children in Belgium. While certain measures are in place, the reality experienced by thousands of families remains starkly different. For those supported by the Restos du Cœur, the cost of schooling continues to be a material, emotional, and social burden.

Free education that falls short for many children

The Belgian Constitution guarantees free access to compulsory education (article 24). In theory, this means that no pupil should be prevented from attending school for financial reasons. However, the implementation of this principle varies depending on where one lives (Flanders, Brussels or Wallonia):

  • In Flanders, a legal cap is set on school-related expenses in primary education: a maximum of €55 in nursery and €105 in primary school, covering outings, snacks, and other minor costs (Onderwijs Vlaanderen - Education in Flanders, 2024), Basic educational materials must be provided free of charge by the school. However, in secondary education, these caps disappear, and costs can quickly exceed several hundred euros per year.
  • In Brussels and Wallonia, free education was strengthened in 2024 for primary schools: Pupils in Years 1 to 3 receive their basic supplies (notebooks, pencils, glue, etc.) free of charge thanks to a dedicated budget (FWB - Wallonia-Brussels Federation, 2024). Conversely, from Year 4 onwards, and throughout secondary education, families once again have to cover the costs.

According to the French-language Union of Parent Associations in Catholic Education the average cost of starting secondary school is €783, and can exceed €1,100 in certain vocational or technical tracks (UFAPEC, 2024).

When materials stay at school… and there is no solution forthcoming for homework

Even in schools where materials are provided free of charge, many headteachers require that these items remain on school premises: pencil cases, scissors, and writing pads are stored in desks.

The result? Children return home without the tools they need to do their homework or revise their lessons. This deepens existing inequalities, especially in households that cannot afford a “second” set of supplies for home use.

Free education is not enough: Our support remains vital

Even in classrooms where free provision theoretically applies, underprivileged children still need materials at home to succeed. Providing a brand-new school kit means:

  • enabling a child to do their homework in decent conditions;
  • offering a stable reference point, even in unstable housing;
  • restoring a sense of dignity and equality with their peers.

It is also a gesture of trust in the child: a way of saying they too deserve something new, something beautiful, something complete. Not second-hand. Not leftovers.

In 2025, nearly 4,000 children from families supported by the need this gesture,

Faced with rising demand, our work helps fill a gap left by current policies, one that schools are unable to bridge fully.

Despite a challenging financial climate, the Restos du Cœur Federation of Belgium remains committed to supporting these vulnerable children. Because a well-stocked satchel is not just about stationery, it’s a gateway to equality, dignity, and a better future. Today’s children are tomorrow’s adults — giving them the right foundations means building a fairer society for everyone.

We take action, we compensate for the system within the limits of our financial means, and we respond concretely to the urgent and legitimate needs of families.

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