For some the start of the new school year means new academic goals, new in school opportunities and exciting new prospects now the slate has been wiped clean over summer. For me, it means new stationery. I've been buying from the 'Back to School' section since the year 2000, and if my new career as a teacher works out I will continue to make such purchases for the foreseeable future. Yesterday I shared the below photo of my 2018/19 stationery to Instagram and had a few messages asking where I'd purchased some of it!
Cactus Pen Pot - John Lewis, £12.50
'Blooming Beautiful' Notepad - Tesco, £3.00
2018/2019 Diary - Tesco, £4.50
Stabio Fine Liners - B&M Bargains, £8.50
I still have a few more bits to get and thought today I'd list a few things that you can get whether you're buying for yourself or your child. Whether you're 5, 15, or 25 and studying for your masters, it's handy to have the right equipment ready before the academic year begins.
Reading Pack/Book Bag (Some schools will require you to buy one with their logo on) Pencil Case
Colouring Pencils Pens Pencils Rubber Pencil Sharpener Felt Tips Ruler Fine Liners
High Lighters Compass Protractor
Calculator
Dictionary Thesaurus Planner/Diary
Ring Binder Folder and Plastic Wallets Lunch Pack Tippex Paper Clips Hole Puncher Stapler
Scissors
Glue
I recognise that this looks like a LOT. Not all of it is essential, hopefully you know which bits you absolutely need and which you can live without. Paperchase, independent Etsy stores and places like Smiggle are perfect for stationery shopping but can be a bit overpriced. If you're on a budget then shopping in Poundland, B&M Bargains and Home Bargains should not be snubbed - they have some really good stuff for some really low prices. However, supermarkets also offer very affordable stationery and it's usually discounted right about now! Wilkos, The Works and even The Range also bring out stationery and quite often it's reasonably priced. Have a shop around and pick out something that has the style you want use to represent your school year!
Wishing you all the very best for the academic year!