IDEAS & ADVICE

Back to school essentials you need to know

Did you know, it takes the average UK parent two hours each day to get their child ready for school? Discover how to get clued up on all things school-related, from knotting a tie to plaiting hair, and the more you learn before the day arrives, the easier that first early morning school run will be.

Whether your little one is just starting nursery or heading into secondary school, there’s plenty to read up on before the day arrives. Ready to get prepared? Here’s everything you need to know before your child goes back to school:

How to organise a school bag

First thing’s first, if you haven’t already, you should invest in a high-quality school bag to see your child through the school year. Find one that’s nice and roomy with extra pockets and zips to keep things organised. Take a look at our boys’ school bags and girls’ school bags to get inspired. 

If you’re using an existing school bag, clean out last year’s debris before you begin. Then, sort out the essentials that need to live inside the school bag. Check your child’s timetable to get an idea of what exercise books they’ll need for each day. Make the most of pockets for smaller items and put the heaviest books and folders at the back of the rucksack to give your child the best support.

These are some things to pack:
•  Books
•  Diary
•  Folders
•  Pencil case with stationery
•  Maths set
•  Lunchbox
•  House key
•  Tissues

What to pack in a lunchbox

Children’s school lunch bags are an absolute necessity. It’s best to get one with different compartments and a water bottle holder to keep everything together.

Here’s what you should pack:
•  Refillable water bottle
•  Healthy breaktime snacks, such as an apple or banana and a cereal bar
•  Lunch, such as sandwiches, pasta, or a wrap
•  A few additional sides or snacks like cheese string or raisins

If your child is a picky eater, you may want to pack a little more so they have options to choose from. Alternatively, many schools offer a hot dinner service instead of a packed lunch.

What to pack in a PE kit

Your child’s PE kit should be comfortable and easy to change in and out of. Childrens’ school uniforms usually contain sportswear - but if you can choose, a white t-shirt black running shorts and black slip-on pumps will do the job. You may also want to pack some childrens’ trainers for outdoor gym classes. Take a look at our girls’ sportswear and boys’ sportswear.

How to plait hair

Basic braids are much simpler than they look, and they help to keep your child’s hair tidy and away from their face while they’re at school. Here’s how to plait hair in five easy steps:

Whether you’re searching for children’s school shoes, school uniform tights, belts for school uniforms or stylish school bags, you can find it all and more with our girls’ back to school and boys’ back to school essentials. Make sure you’re fully stocked up with our back to school checklist.