Back to School Uniform Checklist

Back to School Checklist for Parents (Starting With the Uniform)

Everything your child needs for a confident, stress-free start to the school year.

Back-to-school season can feel overwhelming - uniforms, supplies, shoes, lunches, paperwork… the list adds up fast. To make things easier, we’ve created a simple back-to-school checklist, starting with the most important item of all: the school uniform.

Bookmark this page, tick things off as you go, and start the school year feeling organised and prepared.

1. School Uniform Checklist (Start Here)

Before anything else, check your school’s official uniform policy to confirm what’s compulsory and what’s optional.

Everyday Uniform

• School-approved shirt, polo or dress
• Shorts, trousers, skirt or skort
• Approved socks
• Black school shoes

Sports / PE Uniform

• Sports polo or t-shirt
• Sports shorts or skort
• Sports shoes
• Tracksuit pants or jacket (if required)

Outerwear & Seasonal Items

• School jumper, cardigan or jacket
• Winter uniform items (if different to summer)

Accessories

• School hat (No Hat, No Play)
• Belt, tie or school-approved accessories (if required)

Tip: If a size is out of stock online, use the “Notify Me” button to be emailed when it’s available again.

2. Shoes & Socks

• Black school shoes that meet school guidelines
• Sports shoes for PE days
• Correct colour socks

Make sure shoes are:

• Comfortable
• School-approved
• Properly fitted (with a little room to grow)

3. School Bag & Essentials

• School bag or backpack
• Lunch box
• Drink bottle
• Library bag

Check if your school specifies bag colours or styles.

4. Stationery & Classroom Supplies

• Pencil case
• Pencils, pens, erasers
• Ruler, scissors, glue
• Exercise books or folders

Many schools provide a stationery list always refer to this first to avoid overbuying.

5. Learning & Technology

• Books or workbooks
• Laptop or tablet (if required)
• Headphones

Check device requirements, charging rules, and protective cases.

6. Health, Sun Safety & Comfort

• School hat
• Sunscreen (if allowed)
• Tissues or wipes
• Spare change of clothes (especially for younger students)

7. Paperwork & Prep

• Enrolment forms completed
• Emergency contact details updated
• Medical plans or allergy info provided
• School calendar reviewed

A quick admin check now saves stress later.

8. The Night-Before Checklist

• Uniform laid out
• Shoes and socks ready
• Bag packed
• Lunch plan sorted
• Alarm set

Small prep = smoother mornings.

Final Tip: Always Follow Your School’s Guidelines

Every school has its own standards, and requirements can vary widely. Always refer to your school’s:

• Uniform policy
• Stationery list
• Term or year-level requirements

This checklist is a guide - your school has the final say.

The Bottom Line

A great school year starts with being prepared and the uniform is the foundation. With the right items organised early, you’ll avoid last-minute stress and help your child start the year feeling confident and comfortable.

Lowes is proud to support hundreds of school communities with durable, school-approved uniforms designed for real school life.