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Starting School Checklist

Starting school for the first time, or entering reception class can be both exciting and a little daunting, for both the children and the parents, so here we’ve answered a few of the questions you may have.

What will my child need for their first day of school?

When preparing for your child's first day of school, it's important to have everything they’ll need ready to go. So here at Gap, we have created a checklist of what your child will need when starting primary school.

- School bag: Some schools have branded book bags or PE bags, however there’s always an extra bag needed for those after school activities too! Rucksacks are the easiest school bag for a child to carry around comfortably every day.
- Lunch box: Unless your child is having school dinners, a lunch box is essential - and we recommend choosing a fun lunch box featuring their favourite film or TV character.
- Water bottle: Your child will need a named water bottle for school, or why not order a personalised water bottle with your child’s name printed on it?
- Branded uniform: Usually a jumper and PE top are the only branded items a child will need when starting in reception class, however some schools will also have blazers featuring the school emblem. You will be provided a uniform checklist from the school before the start of the school summer holidays.
- Non-branded uniform: White shirts, plain polo tops, skirts, trousers, shorts, socks and underwear will all be required. Find high quality, great value sets at retailers such as Gap.
- School coat: To keep them warm, dry and cosy, choose waterproof coats or ones with added warmth, such as a Cold Control puffer coat.
- Shoes: It is best to check with the school what their policy will be on school shoes, as each will have different requirements.
- Stationery: Stationery is not usually required for reception children at the very start of school, however it’s always exciting for them to have a new pencil case ready for the start of term, and a few pens, pencils and writing essentials.

Where can I buy plain uniform basics?

You can buy school skirts, trousers, tops and jumpers at many retailers on the high street and online. Choose good quality uniform essentials, as they will get washed a lot! Plus adjustable waists support a growing child, meaning you’ll get more wear as they’ll last longer.

What school uniform can I buy at Gap?

At Gap, you will find many clothing items for school days, including packs of white school shirts, plain white cotton polo tops, skirts and smart chino trousers with adjustable waists, red jumpers, green jumpers, white ankle socks, black school socks, underwear and coats. Plus, our plain jogging bottoms are perfect for PE. Check out Gap’s school uniforms for boys and girls.

What stationery will my child need for starting school?

When it comes to what stationery your child will need for starting school, the essentials are simple; a pencil case, a small pack of pencils, a rubber, a pencil sharpener, a black or blue ballpoint pen (some schools may specify a specific type of pen), and a ruler. While pens and pencils are often replaced over time, a good pencil case can last all throughout their primary school years. There are also special pencils that can help a child learn to grip in the correct way, which can help with their handwriting.

What school bag will my child need for starting school?

We recommend you choose a sturdy school bag when your child starts school, to keep their stationery, books and lunch in. Some book bags are provided by schools, however if not, then a supportive and adjustable backpack will make all the difference, especially when customised with fun and recognisable keychains or name tags to help distinguish it from the rest.

What type of lunch box should I give my child who is starting in reception?

Lunch time is an exciting time for all children. If you're giving them any hot food, or items that need to stay cool, an insulated lunch box is a must. Make sure to be aware of any banned food in your primary school and take care to avoid major allergy foods such as nuts in your child's lunch. When it comes to which lunch box to choose for your child - have fun and pick out a lunch box that's unique and one your kid will love… and don't forget, like all your child’s uniform and school essentials, to label every item with your child’s name or initials.