With the summer holidays approaching, many families are already starting to think about the new school year.

From school uniforms and shoes to stationery, PE kits and other essentials, there can be a lot to organise before September arrives. For many parents, keeping track of everything that needs replacing, buying, or preparing can feel overwhelming, particularly when costs begin to add up.

One way to make the process feel more manageable is to start planning early.

Why a back-to-school checklist can help

A simple checklist can help you stay organised, avoid last-minute purchases, and spread costs over the summer where possible.

Rather than trying to remember everything at once, a checklist allows you to keep track of what your child already has, what still fits, and what may need replacing before the start of term.

It can also be useful when budgeting, helping families prioritise essential purchases and identify opportunities to reuse items they already own.

Tips for using your checklist

As you work through your back-to-school preparations, it may help to:

• Check what can be reused before buying new items.
• Look out for school uniform sales and discounts throughout the summer.
• Explore second-hand options, including local school uniform banks.
• Spread purchases over several weeks rather than buying everything at once.
• Keep track of items as you buy them to avoid duplicate purchases.

Small steps taken throughout the summer can often help reduce stress as the start of term approaches.

Download our free back-to-school checklist

To help families stay organised, we've created a free back-to-school checklist that you can download and use throughout the summer holidays.

The checklist includes common school essentials and provides space to tick off items as you go, making it easier to keep track of your preparations.

Whether you're getting ready for your child's first year at school or preparing for another busy September, we hope this resource helps make the process feel a little more manageable.

Are you a parent struggling financially?

If you work in the UK fashion and textile industry and are finding it hard to make ends meet, FTCT may be able to help. We believe every child deserves the chance to thrive, which is why we provide grants to support families during challenging times.

Could you apply for an FTCT grant?

You may be eligible if:

• you work or have recently worked for a UK fashion or textile employer, and
• you are caring for a child under 18.

FTCT supports families experiencing financial difficulties due to:

• Financial hardship due to job loss, illness, or bereavement
• Being rehoused after homelessness or unsafe living conditions
• Long-term low income and ongoing financial pressure

What can an FTCT grant help with?

Our grants can contribute towards:

• Clothing and school uniforms
• Bedroom furniture
• Study equipment, including laptops
• White goods and essential household items
• Specialist or sensory equipment
• Therapy and wellbeing support

Don’t work in fashion or textiles?

If you have never worked for a UK fashion or textile company, unfortunately we won't be the right charity for you. Please try this list of other charities who might be able to help your family.

Related FTCT support

You might also be interested in:

What to Do When Bills Pile Up

Budget Tips Every Parent Should Know

A Guide to Managing Sleep and Stress