It feels like your first major step towards making school a reality for your child. It is amazing to see your child wearing their first uniform. This will make your child look older than you ever imagined. It is a mixed emotion process. Your child will be grieving and anticipating the future, as we have seen from many things related to their start in school.
We aim to ease the transition from home to school for children and their parents/carers. These are our top tips and a printable checklist that will help you choose the right school uniform.
The requirements for school uniforms can differ between schools. It is therefore important that you check the school’s uniform list. If you haven’t received a letter yet, it is likely that you will find it on their website.
Both specialised shops and supermarkets can sell uniforms. You can buy the basics clothes at the supermarket, but items that require school logos should be purchased in the specialised uniform shop.
Top Tips
You can’t make it last as long as you buy it in a bigger size.
Watch out for sales: All major supermarkets offer great deals on school uniforms. These usually begin in May so don’t miss them.
Many schools/PTAs will organize pre-loved clothing sales, where you can get amazing bargains on seldom worn clothes.
You can get school shoes as early as August, so you will have plenty of options before stock runs out. This gives your child enough time to get them in before school starts.
You can buy shoes with simple buckles or Velcro but no laces until your child is able to tie them on their own.
You want clothes your children are able to put on and take off easily. Perhaps a polo top would be better if they have trouble with buttons.
Label EVERYTHING! Yes, even pants! There are many ways to label them, so make sure you use a reliable one.
You can help your child dress more independently by playing games. You don’t need to limit your options to school uniforms. Play lots of fancy dress, and games that involve dolls and cuddly toys being dressed up. Make it harder for children to change clothes and to get them to put their toy in the correct way.
List of school uniforms
This list is a rough guideline. It will vary from one child to the next. Some kids may bring home paint everywhere, while others might manage to keep their uniforms clean for weeks. Your child is your best friend so you can trust your judgment.
3 – 5 jumpers or cardigans, sweatshirts, or sweatshirts
Three to five long-sleeved shirts
3 – 5 short sleeves or polo shirts
3 – 5 pants, shorts and skirts, pinafores or pinafores
3 – 5 school summer dresses
4 – 5 pairs socks, tights
School shoes
Coat
Summer hat
Scarf, woolly hat and gloves
Some schools may only accept these students:
Tie
Blazer
Fleece
PE Kit List
1 x PE shorts
1 x tee-shirt
Plimsolls are not required in the summer, so be sure to verify before you purchase.
Socks
PE Bag
Extras
Book Bag (Some schools have these so be sure to ask).
Lunchbox
Water Bottle
p.s. LABEL ALL!