Back to School Checklist!
Published: 05/08/2025
Everything You Need & Where to Shop at Victoria Place
As summer draws to a close, it's time to swap the swimsuits for school shoes and get the kids ready for a brand-new academic year. Whether you're preparing for primary school or heading off to secondary or college, a bit of organised shopping now can make the back-to-school rush smooth, stress-free, and even fun!
At Victoria Place, you’ll find everything you need under one roof – from uniforms to tech, stationery to snacks. To make your life easier, we’ve created a simple checklist across the main categories. Tick them off, and you’ll be classroom-ready in no time!
Plus, click here for buying inspo!
Uniform & Clothing
Stay smart and comfy from the first bell to the last.
Top Shops at Victoria Place:
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M&S – high-quality school uniforms, socks, underwear
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New Look – stylish yet school-appropriate pieces for teens
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Primark – budget-friendly basics, shoes, and accessories
Checklist:
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School shirts/blouses
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Trousers/skirts
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Jumpers/cardigans
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School blazer (if needed)
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PE kit (top, shorts, joggers)
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Trainers & school shoes
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Socks & tights
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Coat/jacket
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Backpack
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Hair accessories (bobble-free bands, clips)
School Shoes
Support growing feet with shoes that are comfy, durable, and school-approved.
Top Shops at Victoria Place:
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Clarks – expert fittings and long-lasting school shoes
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Deichmann – affordable, stylish options for all ages
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Skechers – memory foam comfort and sporty styles
Checklist:
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Smart black school shoes
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Trainers for PE
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Plimsolls (for indoor use or primary school)
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Shoe polish or cleaning wipes
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Waterproof spray
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Comfortable insoles
Stationery & Supplies
Start the year with pencil cases packed and notebooks ready.
Top Shops at Victoria Place:
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The Works – budget stationery bundles and workbooks
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TG Jones– wide selection of quality pens, folders, planners
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Rymans – trend-led supplies for older students
Checklist:
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Pens & pencils
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Erasers & sharpeners
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Highlighters
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Ruler & protractor set
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Notebooks & journals
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Ring binders or folders
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Sticky notes & index tabs
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Pencil case
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Glue stick & scissors
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Calculator
Tech & Gadgets
Stay connected and productive in and out of the classroom.
Top Shops at Victoria Place:
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iStore – laptops, tablets, headphones
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Vodafone – mobile plans and student deals
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O2 – mobile tech, accessories, and data plans
Checklist:
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Laptop or tablet
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Protective case
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Wireless headphones
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USB drive or external storage
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Mouse & keyboard (for home study)
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Portable charger
Personal Care & Health
Keep hygiene high and routines steady.
Top Shops at Victoria Place:
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Boots – personal care essentials, vitamins, first aid
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Superdrug – hair and skincare, deodorants, grooming products
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Holland & Barrett – healthy snacks, supplements
Checklist:
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Hand sanitiser
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Tissues & wipes
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Deodorant
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Hairbrush or comb
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Lip balm
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Skincare basics
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Vitamins (multi or specific)
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Mini first aid kit (plasters, etc.)
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Period products
Lunch & Snacks
Stay energised and focused with smart snacks and tasty lunches.
Top Shops at Victoria Place:
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Tesco Express – meal deals, fruit, snacks, and drinks
- Sainsburys – meal deals, fruit, snacks, and drinks
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Holland & Barrett – healthy snack bars, nuts, drinks
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Marks & Spencer – premium lunch options and fresh food
Checklist:
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Lunch box or bag
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Water bottle
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Ice packs
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Sandwich containers
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Healthy snack bars
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Fruit portions
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Juice cartons
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Trail mix or nuts
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Cutlery set (reusable)
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Napkins or wipes
Extras for After School
Get set for clubs, hobbies, and after-school fun.
Top Shops at Victoria Place:
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Sports Direct – sports gear and accessories
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Primark – casual clothing for clubs
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The Works – arts & crafts supplies
Checklist:
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Sports bag
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Extra PE kit for clubs
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Art supplies
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Musical instrument accessories
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Dance shoes or kits
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Notebook for extracurriculars
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Reusable water bottle
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Lock for lockers
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Casual hoodie/tracksuit
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Spare trainers
Final Tips
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Beat the rush: Try shopping midweek or early in the morning for the quietest times.
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Mix & match: Shop across stores for best prices and styles.
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Let them choose: Kids are more likely to use what they’ve picked themselves.