The summer holidays are almost over, and children return to school next week. Even if new uniforms and shoes are already bought, there are always items that get forgotten. To avoid any night-before panic, here is a list of some of the most frequently overlooked back-to-school purchases and where to find them before the new term begins.
Stationery and Bags
Pens are something children can never have enough of, as they inevitably lose them, loan them out, or run out of ink. A five-pack of uni-ball Eye 157 Black Fine Rollerball Pens costs £10 at TG Jones, where shoppers can get £5 off when spending over £20 on books and stationery.
This £20.99 Multi Pocket Backpack from Amazon is both functional and durable. It is water-resistant against light rain and has six individual pockets of various sizes, including an anti-theft pocket at the back, a laptop sleeve, and a side water bottle holder.
Maths Sets and Water Bottles
Sainsbury's Home Grey Maths Set is priced at £1.50, down from £2. It includes a mechanical pencil, eraser, compass, spare pencil leads, ruler, protractor, and two set squares.
The Yeti 12 oz (355 ml) Kids' Bottle costs £28 and is dishwasher safe and leakproof, with double-wall vacuum insulation that keeps drinks cold. It is available in 12 colours and three sizes.
Outerwear and PE Kit
As autumn approaches, a waterproof jacket is essential. The Mountain Warehouse Exodus Kids Water Resistant Softshell Jacket is reduced to £14.99 from £27.99. It comes in sizes from 3-4 years up to 13, with nine colours to choose from. It is water and wind resistant, has a fleece lining and hood, and two side pockets.
The Nike Gym Club Kids' Bag, priced at £29.99, has a large main compartment for sportswear, trainers, and equipment, a side mesh pocket for smaller items, and two strap options.
Notebooks, Pencil Cases, and Pencil Sets
Taggeez Customisable Notebooks and Charms are available at Tesco for £1.50, allowing children to personalise their notebooks with charms. The Jellycat Amuseables Sun Pouch costs £30 and is the right size for a pencil case.
Finally, the Staedtler Office Set of 8 Pieces is priced at £4.50, down from £6, at Hobbycraft. It includes pencils, a rubber, biros, a highlighter, and a pencil sharpener, filling a pencil case in no time.
