Back to School
Back to school…It’s that time of year again – the new school term. Are your kids starting school for the very first time, maybe they’re leaving to go to Uni, or are you a teacher? Whatever the situation, it can be daunting, chaotic and expensive! That’s why, as always, we’re here for you with all the essentials for the new academic year, along with some top tips for going back to school…
Early Years
Feel like you spend all your time washing? Well at least if that’s the case, make sure they’re well-made clothes that will last, until their next growth-spurt that is! JoJo Maman Bebe have fun, comfortable and practical clothes for babies and kids. Perfect for crawling round, exploring and getting in a mess.
Top Tip: when you’re next out shopping, look out for a laundry marker like the Rub-a-Dub pen from Sharpie – perfect for writing their name in all of their belongings. Or you can even order name labels from Marks and Spencer.
Primary School
Where did your Mum used to get your school uniform from? Marks and Spencer and Debenhams were always the go-to places for us, so you’re very lucky that we happen to have both stores here at Marriotts Walk! Clever school wear innovations such as non-iron shirts, scruff resistant shoes and flexible fit features make them top of the class.
Top Tip: Worried you might forget something? Download and print the Debenhams Back to School Checklist to take shopping with you. Remember a refillable water bottle as well!
Secondary School
Schools may have strict uniform rules, but kids can still express themselves with accessories such as bags, pencil cases and phone covers (if allowed). Head to Accessorize, Dorothy Perkins and New Look for all the latest trends.Top Tip: Worried they’re going to lose their front door key? Get one of these cool yet practical keyrings from Accessorize, so they can be spotted a mile away.
Higher Education
It’s time to fly the nest (sob) but why not prepare them with one last treat? No matter what their shape or style, experiment with all the latest fashions for him and her at New Look, so they look cool whithout breaking the bank. For a more casual, laid-back look, head over to Fatface.
Top Tip: Going to college or university, especially if moving away from home, involves getting a lot of ‘stuff’. Have a look at ‘Uni essentials: a definitive list of everything you’ll need in halls’ from Cosmopolitan so you don’t forget anything. Get stocking up on caffeine at Whittard too, ready for late-night ‘studying’!
School’s Out
Have your children finished education and not sure what to do next? Don’t panic – head straight to Meridian Business Support Witney – the recruitment specialists, where the team will be happy to assist with their job search.
Top Tip: Get them a beautiful document case to carry their CV, paperwork and job applications around in. It’ll give them a head-start and look organised and professional at a job interview.
Tailored Teachers
Are you a newly qualified teacher heading for your first teaching post? Or are you taking up a new post in a different school or college? Whatever the challenge, start the term afresh with everything you could possibly need at Marriotts Walk.
Find stylish, sensible shoes at Cotton Traders – ideal if you’re going to be on your feet all day. Ladies, got an important meeting where you need to look the business? Phase Eight, Monsoon and Evans have got you covered for that, and if you’re quick you may even bag a few bargains in the summer sales! Men, get sorted for workwear, at Marks and Spencer and Crew Clothing.
Top Tip: Teachers, want coffee on the go whilst reducing plastic waste? Say hello to the KeepCup from Caffe Nero. A reusable cup that’s fully-recyclable at end of life. Available in medium or grande.
And… relax!
Whether it’s a good luck or congratulations card you need for a new teacher, a mug for Uni or a cool notebook for class – Fresh has got something for everyone.
Let us know how you, and they, went on during their first week back. Why not treat them, and yourself, to a family meal to celebrate and spend some quality time together. Choose from Frankie & Benny’s, Café Rouge, Subway, Caffe Nero or even the latest film at Cineworld!