Published: 29/07/2025 | By: Jasmin Bodman

With the new school year almost here, it’s time to get shopping. A new term can be an exciting time, especially for those just starting school or those going into their last year. With that in mind, it's essential that they have the right kit.

Your child might be nervous, excited, or a bit of both - but who doesn’t love a wardrobe refresh with a bag to match to help settle those nerves, even if just a little? Brand new black school shoes, an unmarked A4 lined notebook, a stylish backpack, PE trainers, the latest highlighters (pastel, neon, there’s so many to choose from) and a lunchbox that rivals the school dinners; these are just some of the items that not only mark a new term.

We’ve put together this handy guide of back-to-school essentials to make your shopping easier and the start of the new school year all the more seamless. From clothing and footwear to stationery, PE kit and more, Sports Direct has an extensive range of products at prices you can’t say no to!

Clothing and footwear to keep them smart and comfortable

1. Uniform:

One of the most essential things when your child starts school is ensuring they have the right uniform and clothing. This may differ depending on what year they’re in, so it’s always important to check. As well, different schools may have varying rules about what clothes are suitable, so it’s crucial to be up to date with the etiquette.

Some items to consider include:

• School jumper and/or blazer

• Smart trousers and/or skirts

• Shirts

• Polo shirts

These tend to be key items in most school wardrobes, but this can differ depending on school, season and year. You may also need to purchase specific accessories, or products with the school logo on them.

A staple piece you’ll definitely want to purchase is a coat. Ideal for the cold commute to school in the winter months and the drizzly days in the playground, a good quality coat or jacket is essential.

Accessories to complete the look can include: tights and socks, vests, hair bands and accessories and a hat or cap.

2. School shoes:

We pride ourselves on the extensive range of kids’ school shoes we have to offer. You can’t beat a sleek, classic pair of black school shoes! With a large selection of picks, including boots, lace-ups, velcro and slip-ons, among others, you can find a winning pair that they’ll be happy to wear all year round.

3. PE kit:

Help your kids excel in their sports lessons while also staying comfortable with the correct PE kit. Whether it’s a swimming lesson, dance class or a rounders session, their clothing should be breathable and flexible, allowing them to move freely and focus on the activity.

We have plenty of PE clothes suitable for your child, from black shorts and tracksuit bottoms to t-shirts and drill tops,  suitable for sports of all kinds. Explore our collection of kids’ swimwear too for swimming lessons!

Don't forget the PE trainers! Here at Sports Direct we stock a plethora of trainers that are ideal for PE lessons, offering comfort, durability and versatility - with a splash of style added! Whether they’re mucking about in the playground, racing on the sports track or taking part in a new activity, a pair of sturdy trainers is a must.

Tip: Don’t forget about the PE bag!

Now all of the clothing is sorted, it’s time to think about other essentials. Whether they’re in year seven, sixth form, or even starting their first year of university, our back-to-school collections offer the kit they need to make the most of the new school year.

Backpacks, holdalls, lunch boxes and more

4. The bag

This, ideally, has got to last - the bus commute, the muddy football game after school, the locker… their bag needs to be strong, durable and able to hold all of their supplies. There’s a variety of different options when it comes to choosing their bag and it comes down to preference. Do they want a backpack, offering ample support when carried? Or a tote bag, with large compartments to pack all of their books?

Some features to look out for include spacious designs, school-friendly patterns and comfortable straps! Discover a huge range of school bags here.

5. Lunch box

Character or minimalist, vibrant or branded, get them a lunch box they’ll want to get stuck into at lunchtime. Ideal if they prefer to take their own food to school, a stylish lunchbox is key for providing them an easy, healthy lunch on the go.

Classroom must-haves

6. Superb stationery staples

A fresh set of stationery is always a winner - who doesn’t love uncapping a new pen or opening up a crisp new notepad? We have a wide array of stationery available, so promote their productivity and help keep the creativity and ideas flowing throughout term time.

Some stationery essentials to consider:

• Biro or ink pens in an assortment of colours, including black and blue

• Pencils (plus a sharpener if you opt for non-mechanical pencils)

• Highlighters - great for studying!

• Rubber

• Ruler and/or ruler set

• Notebooks and paper

• Calculator - note: they may need a scientific calculator, so it’s best to check first

• Pencil case

7. Water bottle

A water bottle is ideal for helping them get their daily water intake up, aiding them through class, sports sessions and more.

If it’s your first time school shopping, we understand it can be a bit nerve-wracking; there’s so much to consider, but don’t fret. The rush leading up to the new term can be an exciting time and the shopping is part of it! Whether it's a brand new PE kit or sleek pair of school shoes, help them look and feel confident as they step into the playground on their first day, all the way to their last day.

We hope this list aids in your back-to-school shopping adventures and don’t forget to browse our extensive range of products today!