School kit
The practical school uniform checklist
Check what still fits, buy only what is missing, and start the new term without duplicate school kit.
6 min read · Updated September 2026
The short answer
Start with your school’s current uniform policy, then check every item your child already owns before buying. Separate the list into everyday uniform, PE kit, outerwear and school-specific extras; record the size and condition of anything that still fits.
Before you buy anything
- Read the latest uniform and PE policy from your school.
- Try on last term’s uniform, including shoes and coats.
- Check drawers, laundry baskets, sports bags and spare-kit boxes.
- Write down the size and condition of every usable item.
- Mark only genuine gaps on the shopping list.
Everyday uniform
Your school’s rules come first, but this is a useful prompt list.
- Shirts, blouses or polo shirts
- Trousers, skirts, shorts or pinafores
- Jumper, sweatshirt, cardigan or blazer
- Socks or tights
- School shoes
- Weather-appropriate coat
PE and activity kit
- PE top and shorts, leggings or joggers
- Trainers or plimsolls required by the school
- Sports socks and any team kit
- Swimming kit, if it appears on the term timetable
- A clearly named PE bag
What is worth finding second-hand?
School-specific items such as branded jumpers, blazers and sports tops are often especially useful to pass between families. Before accepting an item, check fastenings, cuffs, knees, hems and whether a name can be removed or covered.
If an item no longer fits your child, wash it, note its honest condition and list the exact size. That makes it much easier for the next family to decide whether it is right for them.