Back to School Checklist

Whether the new school term still feels a long way off or it's suddenly crept up on you, getting organised early can make those back-to-school preparations much smoother. A little planning now can help you avoid the last-minute rush, save money, and make sure your child has everything they need to start the school year feeling confident and ready to learn.

That's where our ultimate back-to-school checklist comes in. From stationery essentials and school bags to PE kits and lunch boxes, we've rounded up all the school must-haves in one handy place. Better still, you can download our free printable checklist to tick items off as you go, helping ensure backpacks are packed, uniforms are ready, and nothing gets forgotten before the first day.

Whether you're preparing for starting school, moving up a year group, or simply replacing a few well-loved essentials, our back-to-school checklist is designed to help families stay organised, stress less, and get excited for the year ahead.

Back-to-School CheckList

Get ready for a successful school year by ticking off everything in your School Bag Ready Checklist, then use the My School Goals section to set a few fun targets for the months ahead. Whether it's staying organised, making new friends, reading more books, or learning a new skill, this is your chance to start the year feeling prepared, confident, and ready for adventure!

Click Below to Download the Checklist

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School Stationery Supplies

What you need to get your kids will completely differ depending on whether they’re in primary school or secondary. At primary school, the requirements for stationery are a lot less. Once they hit secondary school it’s all protractors, compasses, diaries and everything in between. So it’s worthwhile double-checking with the school in advance for what you’ll need.

• - Pens: It’s an obvious one, but it wouldn’t be a complete back to school checklist if we didn’t include them, would it? And - trust us, you can NEVER have too many! Have a look at our range of pens for everything from ballpoint to gel! 
• - Pencils: Perfect for everything from drawing graphs to sketching masterpieces, we've got lots of pencils available for all your doodling needs.
• - Pencil Sharpener: Another essential to stay sharp and ready - you don’t want to get caught out with a blunt tip!
• - Rubber: Because making mistakes is just part of learning. 
• - Ruler: An absolute must-have for every pencil case. Pro Tip: Check out Ryman’s foldable ones - space savers!
• - Highlighters: Brighten up any school day with highlighters! Having a variety of colours makes revision fun and notes easier to organise. 
• - Colouring Pencils: Add a splash of colour to art class and beyond with our collection of colouring pencils. 
• - Glue Stick: For all those cut-and-paste needs!
• - Pencil Case: Of course, you’ll need somewhere to store all that shiny new stationery! Whatever your kid’s personal style, you’ll find something they will love in our wide range of pencil cases.
• - Lined Notebooks: The Holy Grail of school supplies! Pro Tip: Different colours for different subjects keeps things easily organised. We’ve got lots of different notebooks to suit every subject!
• - Compass: For drawing perfect circles, because who doesn’t need that skill?
• - 360-Degree Protractor: Geometry just got cooler.
• - Scientific Calculator: Because maths doesn’t have to be a headache.
• - Maths Set: Find the perfect maths set with all the bits your child will need to calculate success in our collection of school stationery supplies!
• - Dictionary and Thesaurus: Words are power, and having their own Dictionary and Thesaurus gives your child secret weapons. 
• - Post-It Notes: Find the perfect set of sticky notes for all those “a-ha!” moments.
• - Memory Stick: Keeps your kid staying tech-savvy and their digital files safe and portable. Perfect for school projects.
• - Files and Folders: To keep all their projects neat and organised, have a look through our range of office stationery for everything from folders and binders to plastic wallets and whiteboards!
• - Academic Diary: Help your child to stay on top of the school year with our collection of Academic Diaries. 
• - Stationery Set: For an easy, all-in-one set of stationery that will cover all the basics, we’ve got a variety of affordable and high-quality stationery sets and stationery collections to choose from. 

School Uniform List

Kids are notorious for being forgetful, messy, fussy, and let’s not forget how fast they grow! It’s almost guaranteed that some of their uniform will need replacing each school year. And if your child is moving schools, the uniform might be entirely different, so be sure to check before splurging on new gear. Also, what kids think is cool can change at the speed of light, especially after catching up with their friends, so hold off on buying costly new trainers or coats until a week or two after school starts to avoid an expensive change of heart.

School Uniform Essentials

• - School Trousers: Essential and durable. 2 or 3 pairs will have them covered. 
• - Jumper/Cardigan: Keep them warm and looking sharp.
• - Blazer with School Crest: If required by the school, don’t forget this essential piece of attire. Some schools will sell blazers or have crest patches that can be attached to blazers bought elsewhere. 
• - Shorts/Skirts/Dresses/Pinafores: Versatile options for warmer days.
• - Polo Shirts or Button-Downs: The staple of any school uniform. Aim for 3 or 5, depending on how often you want to do the laundry.
• - Tie (if applicable): Don’t forget this if it’s part of the dress code. They’re often sold by the school, so it’s best to check if they have their own ties.
• - Socks: You can never have too many - we all know how the laundry fairies love to make them disappear!
• - Tights: Have a couple of packs ready to go for the inevitable laddering.
• - Shoes: Smart school shoes that are sturdy and comfortable are a must. Slip-proof and velcro options are lifesavers for little ones!
• - Name Labels or Washproof Markers: It’s best to name-label everything to avoid the lost-and-found graveyard.

Back-to-School Outerwear

• - Coat and/or Jacket (ideally waterproof): Be prepared for all types of weather, especially those unpredictable rainy days.
• - Hat, Scarf, and Gloves: Keep them cosy in the cold.
• - Pocket-Sized Umbrella: For those unexpected downpours.

Back-to-School Accessories

• - Rucksack: Your child’s core school accessory! Let them choose one that they love, but it should be sturdy and spacious enough to hold everything your child needs to succeed.
• - Book Bag (if required): Usually sold by the school. 
• - Lunch Box and Drinks Bottle: Keep them fueled and hydrated. Make sure they are leak-proof!
• - Hairbands: Keep those locks in check!
• - Tissues and Hand Wipes: For clean hands and noses.
• - Sun Lotion and Sun Hat (for summer): Protect your little ones skin!

P.E. Kit List

It's safe to say that most PE kits end up in the mysterious land of lost property at some point, so stick to affordable basics that are easily replaced if they disappear or get too stained to be salvaged. You’ll need to have a chat with their school as PE requirements can vary wildly from class to class and for different age groups. Check for any specific requirements for your child, if they need any school-branded items, and if there’s any additional gear required for unique activities (such as swimming). 

P.E. Kit Essentials

• - T-Shirt or Polo Shirt: Breathable and comfortable (and easily washed!) Check with the school for any specific colours.
• - Shorts: For keeping cool on active days.
• - Joggers: For winter or indoor activities. 
• - Plimsolls: Lightweight and easy to wear.
• - Trainers: Comfortable and durable to keep up with your kid.
• - Socks: A fresh pair for P.E. is a must.
• - Swimwear (if required): Don’t forget the essentials for swimming lessons - swimsuit, hat, and goggles!
• - Gym Bag: Keep all the gear in one place.

Back-to-School Top Tips

Once you're a parent, you quickly learn the hacks that can save you time and money, but it’s always handy to have some extra insight! Here are some pearls of wisdom, especially for going back to school, that will give you a head start:

1. 1. Easy-Iron Trousers and Shirts: These are lifesavers, cutting down on weekend ironing marathons.
2. 2. Polo Shirts vs. Proper Shirts: Many schools allow polo shirts, but if your child needs a proper shirt, short-sleeved ones are easier for younger kids to manage.
3. 3. Coloured Polo Shirts: If you have the option, go for coloured ones. They look cleaner for longer and reduce the laundry load.
4. 4. Notebook Covers: Get sticky back plastic for covering books so they are protected from any spillages.
5. 5. Trousers for PE Days: For younger girls on winter PE days, send them in trousers to avoid the tights struggle.
6. 6. Swap Shops and Second-Hand Sales: Check if your school runs a swap shop or second-hand sales. It's a great way to pick up cheaper clothing. Online forums or marketplaces can also be a treasure trove!
7. 7. Name Labels: Order proper name labels early and stick them on everything, or simply use a permanent marker to write your child's name on their belongings.
8. 8. Set a Routine Early: While it might be tempting to cling onto the last of the long summer days, it’s important to establish a solid bedtime (9-11 hours, according to the NHS) before starting school. Also, consider designating homework time right after school or dinner - your sanity will thank you!
9. 9. Check Important Term Dates: Keep track of key dates like parents' evenings and school trips. Check your school's website or newsletters for the full list!
10. 10. After-School Clubs: Don't forget after-school activities! They’re perfect for boosting your child’s social skills and getting them to explore new hobbies. Check your school's website or Gov.uk for options in your local area.

Good Luck!

That’s it - your ultimate back to school checklist is complete! With this comprehensive checklist (and a few tips and tricks) you’re all set to tackle the new school year like a pro. From uniforms that survive the washing machine's wrath to PE kits that won't mysteriously vanish, you're now armed with the know-how to ensure a smooth, stress-free start.

So, take a deep breath, sip that well-deserved cup of coffee, and get ready to watch your child stride confidently into the new term with everything they need to excel. 

Have a look through our school supplies to double-check you haven’t issued anything. For more information and tips for the first day of school, we’ve written a post on how to prepare as parents.