The summer holidays have finished, the new school year has arrived and for many, it means the start of secondary school. From a new school uniform to new school rules, the leap from primary to secondary school can feel overwhelming for parents and kids alike, so making a checklist of secondary school essentials can help you to feel more organised.
Our secondary school essentials checklist covers what equipment you’ll need for secondary school so they have everything they need during the new school year.
Secondary school supplies
One of the most significant changes for kids moving on to secondary school is the stationery lists. Most primary schools provide pens, pencils and notepads for kids but secondary schools typically don’t.
Investing in a good pen is therefore essential, as is an A4 pad and back to school essentials like maths sets, rulers and of course, a handy pencil case to keep everything organised.
For those joining new performing arts or creative classes, the list for supplies may include other equipment such as dance shoes or painting supplies so getting ahead before the new year starts is important.
The new school has likely sent a list of back to school stationery or other supplies already, so make sure to cross-check it so nothing gets left behind.
Create your own school uniform checklist
Starting a new secondary school will mean investing in a new school uniform, but it can also be an expensive time so working out what is essential helps make sure you’re spending in the right places.
We’ve previously mentioned having a back to school budget which can help separate the school uniform they need vs. what they want to have when it comes to buying brand new.
They’ll likely need some extra uniform too like a blazer, tie, shirt and sports kit so getting ahead will make sure nothing is missed off the list.
Making your own list to include coats, shoes and rucksacks will also help understand what needs replacing and what can be re-worn at their new school.
Managing a weekly budget
Starting secondary school often means introducing the concept of bus fares or lunch money to your children. If your child will need money when they start secondary school, having a pre-paid bank card such as the Rooster Card* could be what you are looking for. You can top it up and control the budget each week, receive notifications about spending and it works everywhere a contactless card would.
Pre-paid cards are a great way to introduce budgets to kids without needing their own accounts. They also help parents stay on top of spending while giving kids the freedom to learn about money.
Starting secondary school is a big move for everyone involved and is a milestone in both a parent’s and child’s life. It’s normal to feel slightly worried about big changes so having a checklist to hand will help stay organised and ensure nothing gets forgotten before the first day.
Start creating your secondary school essentials checklist a few weeks before the new school year to stay on top of things and ensure nothing gets left behind.