Let ’ s get shopping ! Make sure to order your child ' s uniform as early as possible as stock can run out fast . The school will let you know exactly what you ’ ll need , but also check if they have guidelines around hair , nails and jewellery

The essentials

Name labels or wash-proof markers

Jumpers , cardigans or sweatshirts

Shirts or polo shirts

Trousers , shorts , skirts or pinafores

Socks and tights Coat Extra underwear ( just in case !) Summer hat Tie ( for some schools ) Blazer ( for some schools ) Fleece ( for some schools )

Comfortable school shoes ( slip-proof options may help avoid accidents in the playground and velcro may be quicker and easier than laces )

Hat , scarf and gloves

Waterproofs – shoes and outer layer

Hair tie ( for long hair )

PE kit with plimsolls , sports socks and a gym bag to keep it in

Swimming kit ( for some schools )

Rucksack Lunchbox and drink bottle Book bag

Measuring for school uniform

Grab a measuring tape , pen and paper .

Height : Have your child stand barefoot with their back straight against a wall . Measure from the top of their head to the floor

Collar : Place the measuring tape around your child ’ s neck , but leave a little growing room

Chest : Place the measuring tape under your child ’ s arms around the thickest part of their chest

Waist : Wrap the measuring tape around their belly button

Hips : Measure around the widest part of their hips and bottom , keeping the tape measure level all the way around

Inside Leg : Have your child wear shoes and stand up straight . Place one end of the tape measure at the top of the inseam and measure straight down to around 5cm from the floor

Remember : If your child is in between sizes , always go bigger !

Measuring for shoes

For children aged five to ten , you should measure their feet every 12 weeks . It ’ s best done in a shop , but you can also do it at home . You ’ ll need a piece of paper and a pen to draw around your child ’ s foot to accurately measure it . Then look for the ‘ size chart ’ on the retailer ’ s website . Never go too big or too small for shoes – this can damage their feet .

Label everything !

Losing or mixing up belongings happens a lot in schools , so label everything . This will help avoid confusion and keep the school ’ s lost property box nice and empty As good as new

Does your PTA run a pre-loved uniform stall ? It ’ s cheaper and usually as good as new . Don ’ t forget to donate your own child ’ s uniform once they ’ ve grown out of it

10 PARENTKIND . ORG BE SCHOOL READY 2024