As the summer holidays start to wind down, many of us begin to turn our thoughts to the start of a new school year. For families, that often means juggling a long back to school list - from making sure uniforms still fit, to gathering all the bits and pieces needed for the classroom. It can be a lot to think about, especially when everything seems to come at once.
If you’re wondering where to begin, this back to school checklist for 2025 is here to help. It’s a simple, practical guide designed to take the guesswork out of getting ready. Whether it’s your first time preparing for school or you’ve done it before, having a clear school supplies list can make a big difference.
We’ve broken things down into easy sections, covering uniform, stationery, bags, and PE kit, so you can work through everything at your own pace. No fuss, no overwhelm, just a bit of support to help you feel more organised and ready for the term ahead. You can even download our free and easy to follow back to school shopping list PDF to refer back to whenever you need, or you can check out our Back To School Tips blog which is packed with other advice as you head into the new school year!
Uniform
Getting school uniforms sorted is often one of the first big jobs on the back to school checklist. While most schools have clear guidance on what’s required, there are always a few variations to keep in mind - whether it’s logo tops, preferred colours, or specific styles for different year groups.
Generally speaking, the basics stay the same: a few smart shirts or polo tops, trousers or skirts, and a cosy jumper or cardigan for layering. It’s a good idea to have enough to get through the week without midweek washing - especially in the early weeks when routines are still finding their feet.
One thing worth remembering? School clothes have a funny habit of vanishing! Jumpers go missing in cloakrooms, jackets get mixed up in the playground, and it’s not uncommon for identical shirts to come home in someone else’s bag. That’s where name labels really help. Taking a few minutes to label each item (even socks, to be safe!) can save a lot of time and confusion later on.
Top tip:
Try on everything early in the summer holidays. It gives you plenty of time to replace outgrown pieces without the last-minute rush in late August.
Uniform checklist:
- Polo shirts or school shirts
- Trousers or skirts
- Jumpers or cardigans
- Socks and tights
- School shoes
- Waterproof coat or light jacket
- Name labels for every item of clothing (iron-on name labels are a great choice for fabrics)
Stationery and Supplies
When it comes to making a back to school stationery list, the essentials tend to be fairly consistent; however, it can depend on your child’s school, as some provide certain items in class. You may already know what some of those items are, but if you’re not then it could be worth checking with the school. That said, having a few basics ready to go can help your child feel prepared and confident as they head into a new term.
Keep in mind that not everything on this back to school list will be needed on day one, but it’s useful to have them on hand in case they’re requested. And just like with uniforms, popping labels on pencil cases and individual items is a smart move! It’s surprisingly easy for identical pencil cases or rulers to go walkabout.
Top tip:
For younger children especially, putting together their pencil case can be a lovely way to get them engaged and excited.
Choosing a favourite colour, character or even a matching set of stationery helps make the return to school feel a bit more special, and gives them a little something to take pride in on day one!
Stationery checklist:
- Pencil case
- HB pencils
- Rubber
- Sharpener
- 30cm ruler
- Coloured pencils or felt tips
- Glue stick (some schools provide)
- Child-safe scissors (check with school)
- Highlighter (if needed)
- Whiteboard pen (if used)
- Labels for supplies (our name stickers are great for things like pencil cases)
School Bag and Everyday Essentials
Having the right bag and daily essentials from this list of back to school supplies ready can make a big difference to how smoothly school mornings run. For many children, a comfortable backpack that fits their frame is ideal - big enough to carry books, lunch, and a jumper, but not so large that it becomes a struggle to manage. Some schools also ask for a separate book bag, especially for carrying reading books and homework.
Lunchboxes and water bottles are everyday staples, and there’s no shortage of fun designs to choose from. The same goes for raincoats and other bits that often come and go with the weather. With so many children carrying similar items, labelling everything - from lunch bags to water bottles - can really help avoid mix-ups and lost property dramas.
Top tip:
It’s also worth packing a few small extras like tissues or hand sanitiser to help your child stay comfortable and prepared throughout the day.
Everyday essentials checklist:
- Backpack
- Book bag (if required)
- Lunchbox
- Water bottle
- Raincoat or packable waterproof
- Tissues or hand sanitiser
- Name labels for water bottles, lunchboxes and bags
PE Kit
PE lessons can vary a little depending on the school, but most will ask for a basic kit that covers both indoor and outdoor activities. Lightweight clothes and easy-to-change footwear are key - and having everything packed in a separate PE bag keeps it simple and easy for your child to manage on their own.
Some schools provide specific guidance on colours or logo tops, so it’s always worth double-checking before you buy. For outdoor sessions, especially in cooler months, a pair of joggers or a hoodie might also be suggested - though these are often added later in the term if needed.
Top tip:
Pack the kit the night before PE day to avoid any last-minute scrambles. Having a dedicated bag makes it easier to remember and helps keep the rest of their school things organised too.
PE kit checklist:
- PE t-shirt
- Shorts
- Trainers or plimsolls
- Spare socks
- Hair ties
- PE bag
Final Check and Tips
Once you’ve got the basics sorted from this back to school checklist (uniform, supplies, bag, and PE kit) you’re well on your way to a smooth start to the school year. Getting organised early means less rushing around later, and more time to enjoy those last few days of the summer holidays together.
To make things even easier, remember to take a look at our handy printable PDF version of this checklist. You can stick it on the fridge, tick things off as you go, or even go through it with your child to get them involved.
And remember, you’re doing brilliantly. Taking time to prepare now really does pay off when September arrives. A few simple steps - like having some school name labels for your child’s belongings - can make all the difference in reducing lost property and last-minute panics!