Life it far too short to get involved in the school gate competetiveness/politics, it is all too shallow to give any time or worry to. Be yourself, if thats not good enough for those who have to get into debt to keep up with the other clique members, then tough, its their loss eventually. If they brag abuot their wonderful child's achievement then be pleased for them - that'll throw them! Just make sure you make a fuss of your child when they come out of school and show them you're proud of them and love them. Be above all the pettiness, its easier - I think so anyway

Firstly it's important to remember that all parents feel like they have to compete at the school gates, it's human nature. For dealing with outright bitchy mums never stoop, turn the other cheek and offer to look after children, this can be a useful exchange value that can quickly earn you a place in 'the clique'. If you can try and become a parent governor this will help you to be involved with the school and get yourself known amongst the parents so you won't feel on the outside.

f*** the parents at the gate. they're not important, your child is. If they want to be all high and mighty and pretend their child is god's gift then its quite likely their child will wind up selfish, stuck up and full of themselves. Congratulate them on their kids acheivement sure, just agree with them and they'll eventualy stop bothering, then you can concentrate on praising your child for what they've done, no matter how big or small praise is good, thinking your better than the rest is bad, so in the end their loss and your gain.