Back-to-School Checklist: A Helpful Guide for Foster Carers
As the summer holidays draw to a close, families across the UK are preparing for the new school year. For foster carers, this can be an especially important (and sometimes overwhelming) time. Getting children ready to return to school, or start a new one, can involve more than just buying supplies – it’s about making sure they feel prepared, supported, and confident. To help, we’ve put together an extensive back-to-school checklist covering both primary and secondary school needs.
General Back-to-School Preparation
- Uniform check: Make sure all items fit, are labelled with the child’s name, and meet school requirements.
- Shoes: Well-fitting, supportive school shoes.
- PE kit: Clothing and footwear suitable for physical activity.
- School bag: Comfortable, durable, and large enough for books and lunch.
- Lunchbox and water bottle: Encourage healthy eating and hydration.
- Stationery: Pens, pencils, ruler, rubber, sharpener, colouring pencils.
- School calendar: Note key dates such as term start, holidays, parents’ evenings, and exam periods.
- Medical needs: Ensure the school is updated with any allergies, medications, or health plans.
- Travel arrangements: Plan safe routes to and from school, or arrange transport if needed.
Primary School Checklist
- Uniform basics: Polo shirts, jumpers/cardigans, trousers/skirts, socks/tights.
- PE kit: T-shirt, shorts, plimsolls/trainers, jogging bottoms for outdoor PE.
- Art apron/old shirt: For messy activities.
- Book bag: For homework, reading books, and letters from school.
- Spare clothes: For younger children who may have accidents or get messy.
- Coat: Waterproof and practical.
- Hats & gloves: For colder weather.
- Sun hat & sunscreen: For warmer days.
Secondary School Checklist
- Full uniform: Blazer, shirts, trousers/skirts, tie (if required), jumpers, socks/tights.
- School shoes: Smart and in line with school policy.
- PE kit: School-specific kit (check requirements carefully).
- Stationery set: Pens, pencils, ruler, protractor, compass, scientific calculator, highlighters.
- Exercise books/folders: As specified by the school.
- Planner/diary: To keep track of homework and deadlines.
- Locker padlock: If lockers are provided.
- Tech needs: USB stick, headphones, or tablet/laptop if required.
- Revision supplies: Flashcards, sticky notes, subject-specific guides for older students.
- Transport card: If using buses, trains, or trams to travel independently.
Emotional Preparation
It’s not just about the physical checklist – emotional readiness is equally important:
- Talk about school positively: Discuss what they’re looking forward to and address any worries.
- Meet teachers or visit school grounds: Especially helpful for new starters.
- Routine reset: Gradually adjust bedtimes and wake-up times a week before school starts.
- Encourage independence: Support them in organising their own bag or uniform.
- Celebrate milestones: Acknowledge their achievements, no matter how small.
Final Thoughts
Going back to school can be exciting but also daunting, particularly for children in care who may be starting in a new environment. With the right preparation, both practically and emotionally, foster carers can help children feel ready to face the year ahead with confidence.
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