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Get Back To School Ready 2026

Education & Parenting 55

Added by: Shropshire Mums on Sun Aug 9 14:53 2026

Are You Back To School Ready?

In the blink of an eye the School Summer Holidays will be drawing to a close. The average national cost of school uniform just like verything else has spiraled with school uniforms setting parents back hundreds of pounds each year...  Thankfully this yearthere are some new rules in place regarding the branded items of school uniform.  Read on below to find out all about the new School Uniform Rules as laid out by the governement....


New School uniform Government Guidance

Schools and their governors decide whether there should be a school uniform and what it includes. They should consult parents when developing their uniform policy and publish it on the school website.

Cost of school uniforms

Schools must follow statutory guidance on the cost of school uniforms, which includes making sure they’re affordable. The cost should never be a barrier to families and pupils applying for and attending a school.

Schools should make sure they limit the number of branded items in the uniform.

From September 2026, schools should not require parents and carers to buy more than 3 items of branded school uniform. Secondary and middle schools may ask for 4 items if a tie is one of them.


Schools should also ensure that:

• second-hand uniforms are available

• information on how to buy them is published on the school’s website

If you cannot afford the uniform or PE kit, you should contact the headteacher to check what support is available.

You may be able to get help with school uniform costs. If you live in England, contact your local council to find out if there is support in your area.

If you live in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland

You may be able to get a school uniform grant if:

you live in Scotland

you live in Wales

you live in Northern Ireland

If your child does not follow school uniform rules

The headteacher can discipline your child for not wearing the school uniform. The rules on the uniform will be in your school’s behaviour policy, which you can ask to see.

Discrimination

Schools can decide their own uniform policy. If you think it discriminates against your child, talk to the headteacher. For example, although schools may have different uniforms for boys and girls, there should not be a significant difference in price.

If you think the school is discriminating against your child, check your rights on protected characteristics.

Complain about school uniform

You can contact the school if you have a complaint about the uniform. They must explain clearly on their website how you can do this.

If you’re not satisfied with how your complaint has been handled, contact the Department for Education.


Check out Shropshire Mums top tips below to help find affordable uniform:

Hand me downs

Don’t be afraid to use hand me downs. If a blazer for one child fits the younger one when they’ve outgrown it, then make good use of it. Don’t just share hand me downs with siblings - if you and your friends all have children at the same school, then make use of that network.

Uniform swap

It’s becoming a popular trend among parents to help save some extra cash. There may be an online group for your local school where you can easily swap uniforms such as a ‘year 4’ top for some ‘year 5’ trousers. It’s always best to do it just before the academic year starts.

Look out for ‘pre-loved giveaways’

Check around selling groups for members who are selling bundles of school uniforms as part of free giveaways. These are often first come first serve, so make sure to turn post notifications on!

Shop around at different retailers

Explore various shops which are selling packs of uniform items for your unbranded clothing. This will further help when buying multiple packs to last throughout the year. Supermarkets such as Sainburys and Tesco frequently hold discounted school uniform events saving you up to 25% off.

Spread the costs

Have a look at where you can put away the spare £10 or £20 every week and allocate it directly for school uniforms. If you save these extra pennies, you’ll be able to have a higher budget for the start of the academic year. Some school uniform stores accept payments from places such as paypal credit, klarna finance etc and can help spread the cost interest free over a few months.

Keep your eyes peeled

It’s always worth keeping an eye out for any discounts or voucher codes. These can make a big difference to the school uniform spend.

Go directly to the school

Many parents aren’t aware of this tip but heading straight to the schools is a great way to get free school uniforms. Lots of kits are donated at the end of the academic year and these are usually available for collection in the first month of re-opening. School uniform banks have become a regular in schools with many schools across the county now holding supplies.


Little Stars Charity - Easing the School Uniform Burden: Join The Back-to-School Ready Campaign

The Little Stars Charity Back-to-School Ready campaign will run throughout Shropshire and seeks to ensure that children of primary and secondary school ages have the essential items they need, by distributing uniforms through community hubs and referrals from health professionals and schools. With public support, they can make a significant difference in children in our community and ensure they start the school year with confidence.  

 How You Can Help 
Donate: Support by sponsoring a uniform. Your donation will help children fit in with their peers and focus on their education. Donate now and find out more: GoFundMe Back-to-School Ready Campaign 
Drop Off Pre-Loved Uniforms: Drop off pre-loved non-branded uniforms at Tesco Extra donation bins in Shrewsbury and Ellesmere or Morrisons donation bins in Shrewsbury and Oswestry. 

For more information about Little Stars Charity year-round uniform service Cool for School: Click Here 


If you still need to head to the shops and buy new...

We have been taking a look at some great Back To School products to help settle your big and little kids back to school.

Disclaimer – We received these products for the purpose of this review feature.


DRINKS & SNACKS INC PACKED LUNCHES 


Nonni Premium Electrolyte Drink

(IMPORTANT ... NOT SUITABLE FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN UNDER 13)  

Ideal for Teenagers, Sixth formers and adults


uploaded picture FUNCTIONAL HYDRATION  uploaded picture

nonni is a feel-good, drink-anytime alternative to alcohol, energy drinks, or sugar-laden sodas.
Perfect for the sober-curious, the overstimulated, and the quietly ambitious. It’s hydration, reimagined: a can that belongs in your fridge, not your medicine cabinet. We are here to present smarter hydration, and to power your possible.
Designed with clarity, flavour, and function in mind, it’s here to hydrate a new generation of doers, thinkers, and desk-side sippers.
nonni reimagines hydration as something you actually want to drink. It provides functional fizz for focus, energy, and hydration, low-salt, daily drinkable electrolytes, food-adjacent flavours including Sicilian Lemon with Mint, and Grapefruit with Kefir Lime & a hint of Black Pepper, plant-powered, under 20 calories, and free from artificial sweeteners or caffeine.
While nonni wasn't designed for younger children, it's a brilliant option for older children, sixth formers, university students and parents looking for a healthier alternative to sugary fizzy drinks as they head back into busy routines.
The return to school often brings early starts, packed schedules and long days, and hydration is something that's easily overlooked. Even mild dehydration can contribute to fatigue, reduced concentration and brain fog. nonni was created to make staying hydrated something people genuinely enjoy, whether it's during the school run, at work, after clubs or while studying.
As the UK's first premium ready-to-drink sparkling electrolyte, nonni has a lower-salt formulation, contains less than 20 calories per can, no caffeine and no artificial sweeteners. It's available in two refreshing flavours: Sicilian Lemon with Garden Mint and Pomelo Grapefruit with Kefir Lime & Black Pepper.
Since launching earlier this year, nonni has become the best-selling canned beverage at Farmer J, with over 800 cans sold there every day, and was recently recognised by the Evening Standard as the Best Ready-to-Drink Electrolyte.

RRP £9.99 pack of 4 cans

https://www.drinknonni.com/collections/frontpage



UNIFORM, OTHER CLOTHING & ACCS 


SAINSBURY & ARGOS SELECTION

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 START-RITE Cadet Black Leather Lace Up School Shoes uploaded picture

Our Rhino branded Cadet black leather shoes have a lace up moccasin design with feature camouflage material that older boys will love. Antibacterial linings and Air-Rite technology encourages improved breathability for all-day comfort and the lace up fastening gives an adjustable fit. From first to last bell, the super lightweight moulded, flexible sole assures natural, easy movement.

Material

Upper: Leather, Lining: Textile, Sole: PU

uploaded picture Care

 Wipe clean or leather polish.

Available in a huge range of sizes from a 2.5 junior all the way upto an adults UK 10.

RRP £62

https://tuclothing.sainsburys.co.uk/product/tuc144779068


OLDER BOYS - White Regular Fit Long Sleeve Shirts 2 Pack uploaded picture

Our white long sleeve shirts are a smart staple for every formal wardrobe. In a pack of 2, our shirts come in a regular fit and feature front button fastening. With a front pocket detail and classic collar, they're timeless essentials for your collection.

2 Pack white long sleeve shirts

Regular fit

Button fastening

Front pocket detail

Cotton-rich

Available in collar sizes 14 - 17.5

RRP £18 

https://tuclothing.sainsburys.co.uk/product/tuc143656437

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 OLDER BOYS - 2 Pack Grey Trousers

Stain-repellent finish - with eco-friendly Teflon Eco-lite™ to help repel spills and keep fabric looking fresh

Perfect crease - stays crisp for a smarter, school-ready crease that lasts

Reinforced knees - extra durability for everyday play and wear

Adjustable waistband - for all-day comfort and a perfect fit

Great value 2-pack - more for less with our handy pack sizes

Available in sizes Age 9-18

RRP from £9

https://tuclothing.sainsburys.co.uk/product/tuc128763470

Girls Black School Culottes uploaded picture

Perfect for the summer term, these smart black culottes are designed with a pleated front to give the illusion of a skirt. Built for active children, they're crafted from a hard wearing fabric which repels water based stains.

Girls black culottes

Box pleats

Adjustable waist

Repels water based stains 

Available in ages 3-14 years

RRP Currently on onffer for just £3.50 from £7

Buy Black School Culottes 13 years | School trousers and shorts | Tu


uploaded picture 2 Pack Black Jersey Tube SkirtsGreat value 2-pack

More for less with our handy pack sizes

Elasticated drawstring waistband - a flexible fit that moves with them

Available in ages 10-16 years

RRP £10 -£16

Buy 2 Pack Black Jersey Tube Skirts 13 years | School skirts | Tu


White Large Collar Short Sleeve Blouse uploaded picture

Perfect white - made to stay bright wash after wash

Easy iron - a quick iron will bring it back to perfect

Peter Pan style collar– a classic round collar with frill trim

Short sleeves - perfect for warmer weather and active days

Full button fastening - easy to wear and simple to fasten

Available in age 3 - 12 years

RRP from £5-£7

Buy White Large Collar Short Sleeve Blouse 12 years | School shirts and blouses | Tu



TESCO F&F SELECTION


uploaded picture F&F School Girls 3-Pack Pure Cotton Regular Fit Collared Polo Shirts in White

Stock up on their school essentials with this 3-pack of pure cotton, regular fit polo shirts. Designed with a buttoned placket and collared neckline, they feature a stain-repellent finish and colour that lasts, keeping them looking smart day after day.

We offer a 1-year quality guarantee on school uniform products, including school shoes. Just return them with proof of purchase to any Tesco Extra or Superstore if you're not satisfied with the quality. Excludes coats, accessories, socks, tights and underwear. For more information, please visit our returns and refunds FAQs.

We've held the 2024 price of any uniform we sold last year. Uniform does not include essentials such as underwear or socks.

100% Cotton

Machine wash at 40°C, Tumble dry low temperature, Do not dry clean

Available in age 3-4 upto 9-10

RRP £4.50 - £6

https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/321090845


F&F School Girls 2-Pack Cotton Rich Regular Fit Pinafores in Grey uploaded picture

Made from a cotton rich fabric for a more natural feel, this 2-pack of skater pinafores is perfect for school days. Featuring a soft touch finish, this handy set offers a smart and practical option for everyday wear. The zip fastening at the front adds a convenient touch, making dressing easy on busy mornings. Wear over a short sleeved shirt with knee high socks for a timeless term-time outfit.

85% Cotton, 15% Polyester

Machine wash at 40°C, Tumble dry low temperature, Do not dry clean

Available in sizes age 3-4 upto 10-11 in colours black, navy or grey

RRP from £9 - £11

F&F School Girls 2-Pack Cotton Rich Regular Fit Pinafores in Grey - Tesco Groceries


uploaded picture F&F School Unisex 2-Pack Performance T-Shirts in White

Designed with quick dry features, this handy 2-pack of performance t-shirts is perfect for everyday wear. Featuring a classic crew neckline and short sleeves, each piece offers a simple and smart look for school days.

We offer a 1-year quality guarantee on school uniform products, including school shoes. Just return them with proof of purchase to any Tesco Extra or Superstore if you're not satisfied with the quality. Excludes coats, accessories, socks, tights and underwear. For more information, please visit our returns and refunds FAQs.

We've held the 2024 price of any uniform we sold last year. Uniform does not include essentials such as underwear or socks.

100% Polyester

Machine wash at 40°C, Tumble dry low temperature, Do not dry clean

Available in sizes age 5-6 - 15-16

RRP from £8-£12

F&F School Unisex 2-Pack Performance T-Shirts in White - Tesco Groceries


F&F Boys 5-Pack Cotton Rich Ribbed Ankle Socks in Black uploaded picture

Stock up on their school essentials with this convenient 5-pack. In a cotton blend fabric with elastane, these ankle socks will keep their feet comfortable all day long.

77% Cotton, 21% Nylon, 2% Elastane

Machine wash at 40°C, Tumble dry low temperature, Do not dry clean

Available in sizes UK junior 12.5 -3 upto UK size 4-6 in colours black or grey

RRP £5

F&F Boys 5-Pack Cotton Rich Ribbed Ankle Socks in Black - Tesco Groceries


uploaded picture F&F School Girls 5-Pack Cotton Rich Tights in Grey

These school tights come in a convenient 5-pack, perfect for everyday wear during term time. Made from a cotton rich fabric with added stretch, each super soft pair has a ribbed waistband for a secure fit. Ideal for layering under pinafore dresses or pleated skirts for a smart classroom look.

76% Cotton, 22% Nylon, 2% Elastane

Machine wash at 40°C, Tumble dry low temperature, Do not dry clean

Available in sizes Age 3-4 upto 13-14 and colours black or grey

RRP £9.50

F&F School Girls 5-Pack Cotton Rich Tights in Grey - Tesco Groceries


Outer Wear

EcoSplash Waterproof Fleece Lined Jacket Navy uploaded picture

Ready for whatever the weather may bring, this kids' waterproof jacket is perfect for rainy morning walks to school, puddle jumping sessions or chilly playground adventures.

The warm waterproof jacket boasts a waterproof rating of 10,000mm, so it’s guaranteed to keep your young explorers dry and protected in heavy downpours.

Durable and breathable, the fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles and has a soft fleece lining for extra cosiness and warmth.

Whether they’re splashing in the springtime rain or slinging snowballs across the park, the jacket is easy to layer and can be worn in a range of temperatures across the seasons.

The fully taped seams provide robust protection against the elements and reflective details add safety by enhancing visibility in low-light conditions.

Machine washable at 30 degrees, this waterproof fleece lined coat is the ultimate companion for any little puddlestomper that’s keen to conquer the great outdoors!

Available in sizes 18-24mths all the way upto 11-12 years

Currently on offer at just £44.80  usual RRP £56.00

EcoSplash Waterproof Fleece Lined Jacket Navy Kids - Muddy Puddles


ProViz - Reflective Hair Scrunchie

 uploaded picture REFLECT360 COLLECTION

Introducing the REFLECT360 Range — the ultimate collection of high-visibility, weather-ready gear for every journey.

Engineered with advanced 360-degree reflectivity, these products ensure you're seen from every angle, keeping you safe in low-light conditions.

Featuring cutting-edge fabric technology, the REFLECT360 range delivers exceptional waterproofing and breathability, so you stay dry, comfortable, and prepared for any weather.

Whether you're cycling, running, or commuting, the next generation of reflective performance has arrived to elevate your experience.

Stay visible. Stay protected. Stay ahead.

The reflective hair scrunchie is designed to combine everyday style with added visibility, this reflective hair scrunchie helps you stay seen in low-light conditions without compromising on comfort or aesthetics. Made with soft, lightweight fabric and woven with reflective detailing, it’s the perfect finishing touch for runs, commutes, or evenings out when visibility matters.

About the fabric: The fabric used for the REFLECT360 range is highly technical. During daylight it is a modest grey colour. At night, when the fabric picks up an external light source, eg vehicle headlights, it gives 'astonishing reflectivity' (quote: Cycling Active Magazine). The material is CE EN 20471 certified.

Available in Pink, Yellow, Burgandy and Black

RRP £7.99

https://provizsports.com/products/reflective-hair-scrunchie?variant=57478940655999


STATIONARY & ACCESSORIES


RYMAN STATIONERS

Verbatim USB 2.0 Pinstripe Flash Drive, Push-Pull Sliding uploaded picture

Store all your important files, music and videos with the Verbatim USB Drive 128GB Pinstripe. This essential flashdrive accessory features a vibrant design and generous storage capacity for all your digital needs. Transfer data effortlessly between devices with this USB flash drive. With USB ports now common in computers, cars, DVD players, TVs and more, this lightweight Verbatim thumb drive ensures your files are always accessible. Generous 128GB memory capacity for all your important files USB 2.0 with read speeds up to 10 MB/s Push and pull sliding feature protects the connection Compact pen drive dimensions: 54 x 21 x 9.22 mm Lightweight, striped pendrive design requires no separate cap

Store all your important files, music and videos with the Verbatim USB Drive 128GB Pinstripe. This essential flashdrive accessory features a vibrant design and generous storage capacity for all your digital needs.

Transfer data effortlessly between devices with this USB flash drive. With USB ports now common in computers, cars, DVD players, TVs and more, this lightweight Verbatim thumb drive ensures your files are always accessible.

Generous 128GB memory capacity for all your important files

USB 2.0 with read speeds up to 10 MB/s

Push and pull sliding feature protects the connection

Compact pen drive dimensions: 54 x 21 x 9.22 mm

Lightweight, striped pendrive design requires no separate cap

Available in colours black, blue, green and pink

RRP £19.99

Verbatim USB 2.0 Pinstripe Drive, Push-Pull Sliding


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 Casio FX 83GTCW Scientific Calculator

Are you in need of a scientific calculator? Well, with the new and upgraded version of the Casio FX-83GT X, this calculator includes additional features and a high definition display as well as an improved UI.

If you have exams coming up, then this calculator can be used. It is recommended and approved for Key Stages 3 and 4, which includes GCSE, National and Higher, Junior and Leaving.

Gain a better understanding of mathematical expressions on the display screen, for example; roots and fractions as they appear in your textbooks, this will increase your comprehension because the results are easier to understand and in plain sight.

Its quick and easy to navigate user interface gives you access to more functionality, with over 290 different functions to try out, a new key layout and menus.

. Rounded dome keys for simple and accurate key entry.

. Protective Clip on Hard Case included.

. QR code to display graphic representation.

. Simulation tool 'Math Box' for dice roll and coin toss to boost students' curiosity.

. Battery Powered (1 x AAA included) with Auto Power Off.

. 3 Year guarantee.

RRP £14.99

https://www.ryman.co.uk/casio-fx-83gtcw-scientific-calculator


PaperMate InkJoy 300RT Retractable Ballpoint Pen Pack of 24 uploaded picture

Ultra-smooth ink keeps your thoughts flowing and eases the process of writing Click, smile, and go!

InkJoy 300RT retractable ballpoint pens let your words and ideas flow in ten bright and brilliant colours.

The ultra-smooth writing system never drags, plus these pens have comfortable rubberised grips that feel great in your hand.

Liven things up with InkJoy!

. Pack of 24

. Medium point 1.0mm

. Black ink

. Ballpoint

Currently on offer at just £9.89 usual RRP £19.99 

https://www.ryman.co.uk/papermate-inkjoy-300rt-retractable-ballpoint-pen-pack-of-24-1


uploaded picture BiC 4 Colour Shine Pack of 2 Plus 1 Standard Colours

The BiC 4 Colours Shine Pen gives you 4 different fun colours of ink in the same pen, saving you space in your pencil case and time switching between colours!
 Ideal for teachers and students alike, each pen contains black, blue, red and green inks.
The 1.0mm nibs write with an elegant 0.4mm line width making this a great, versatile pen for home, work or the office.

. Medium-point retractable pen that writes in 4 different colours so you can easily organise your work
. Each pen contains black, blue, red and green ink cartridges, all in the same pen
. Fun, shiny coloured body
. Medium 1mm point that gives a line width of 0.4mm

Currently on offer at just £5.99 usual RRP £9.99 

BiC 4 Colour Shine Pack of 2 Plus 1 Standard Colours


Staedtler Back To School Collection Set uploaded picture

Get ready to head back to school with the ultimate stationery bundle! The Staedtler Back To School Collection Set is your all-in-one solution for a successful academic year. Packed with everything you need, this set ensures you're prepared from day one. Imagine opening your pencil case and finding every essential tool right at your fingertips!

Inside this fantastic set, you'll discover 3 of the iconic Noris HB pencils, each equipped with a handy eraser tip for those quick corrections. Perfect for jotting down notes or sketching, these pencils are a classroom staple. To add a splash of colour and keep your work organised, we've included 4 high-quality highlighters. Each highlighter features a large ink reservoir, ensuring extra-long highlighting performance, so you won't run dry during those important study sessions.

For your note-taking needs, you'll find 8 smooth-writing ballpoint pens. Ideal for creating colourful and engaging notes, these pens make writing a pleasure. And let's not forget the star of the show: a 10-piece collection of essential maths tools, all neatly supplied in a sturdy tin. Whether it's geometry or basic arithmetic, you'll have everything you need to tackle maths class with confidence.

This Staedtler Back To School Collection Set isn't just about practicality; it's about making learning fun and efficient. No more scrambling for supplies or settling for less. With this set, you're ready to take on any challenge and make this school year your best one yet!

. 3x iconic Noris HB pencils with an eraser tip

. 4x high-quality highlighters with a large ink reservoir for extra-long highlighting performance

. A 10-piece collection of essential maths tools, supplied in a sturdy tin

. 8x smooth-writing ballpoint pens ideal for creating colourful notes

Currently on offer at just £19.99 usual RRP £9.99 

Staedtler Back To School Collection Set


Daler Rowney Aquafine Watercolour Pad A3 uploaded picture

Perfect for students and beginners, this Daler Rowney Aquafine Watercolour Pad features A3 sheets of thick water colour paper to create artistic masterpieces.

Featuring 12 sheets of 300g paper, this pad is made from cold pressed virgin wood pulp which has been carbonate buffered to prevent the deterioration of colour as well as providing good water absorbency.

. Ideal for by students and beginners

. 12 sheets

. A3 size

. 300g

. Cold Pressed - Suitable for all watercolour techniques

. Manufactured using 100 percent virgin wood pulp

. Carbonate buffered to prevent the deterioration of colour

. Good water absorbency

. Acid free

. Approximate dimensions (mm) H297 W423 D9

RRP £11.99

 Daler Rowney Aquafine Watercolour Pad A3

BEST OF THE REST

uploaded picture

Nimbl - The pre paid debit card for 9-18 year olds

nimbl is the UK’s trusted money app and prepaid card for kids and teens who are starting to discover the world their way. it gives them the independence to earn, save and spend on their own terms – with the reassurance that you’re always in control.

trusted by parents, loved by teens

teens own their financial independence, parents keep control - nimbl's been making it happen for nearly a decade. here's why we're loved by parents and teens alike:

you're in control

see transactions instantly, set spending limits and freeze their card anytime

money stays safe

bank-grade security keeps every payment safe, giving your total peace of mind

teach independence

teens earn, save and spend, while building money habits that truly last

use everywhere

a prepaid card that works home and abroad, an app they'll actually love


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We're sorry but something went wrong, don't worry we are aware of the problem and are working to resolve the issue.