With the 2025 back to school season just around the corner, it’s time to get everything in order for a smooth and successful start. Whether you’re a parent preparing your child for an exciting year ahead or a student getting ready to excel, a well-organised checklist can make all the difference.
From the first day of school to the final term, being prepared helps set the stage for a positive and productive year. From gathering essential supplies like stationery, backpacks, and lunchboxes to planning for uniforms, technology, and textbooks, a little forward-thinking can help avoid last-minute hassle.
By taking the time to plan now, you can create a smooth transition into the new school year, empowering children to focus on learning, growth, and success from the very first day to the final term. Here’s a list of school essentials to get you started:
1. School Supplies Essentials
Preparing for back to school season starts with gathering the essential supplies to set students up for success. While individual schools and grades often have specific lists, a general checklist includes:
- Notebooks, workbooks & textbooks, binders, and folders for organisation
- Pens, pencils, highlighters, and erasers for everyday writing and study needs
- Rulers, calculators, and geometry sets for accurate calculations and measurements
- A durable backpack with multiple compartments for easy organisation
- Lunchboxes and water bottles for on-the-go nourishment
For younger children, essentials often include pencils, crayons, notebooks, glue sticks, and scissors. High school students may need more advanced tools like scientific calculators, binders, highlighters, and subject-specific items like geometry sets or sketchbooks. Tech necessities like laptops, tablets, or USB drives, as technology plays an increasingly significant role in classrooms.
Choose a sturdy, ergonomic backpack to support your child’s posture while accommodating heavy books. Clearly label all items to prevent loss and help kids keep track of their belongings. Be sure to review the school’s supply list to ensure nothing essential is overlooked.
2. Uniforms and Clothing
3. Lunches and Snacks
Preparing healthy, appetising lunches and snacks is an essential part of back-to-school prep. Choose durable, reusable, and easy-to-clean lunchboxes and drink bottles that can withstand daily use.
Plan meals that include a variety of balanced, nutrient-rich options like whole-grain sandwiches, fresh fruit, and protein-packed snacks.
4. Health and Hygiene Supplies
5. First-Day Preparations
The night before the first day of school, lay out uniforms, pack lunches, and organise backpacks. A calm, organised morning helps everyone start the day on a positive note.
Arrive at school a little early to ease the transition, particularly for younger children. This gives them time to settle in and meet their classmates before the day begins.
6. Back to School Worksheet
