The summer holidays always seem to fly by and before you know it, it’s time to think about the new school year.
Whether your child is starting school for the very first time, moving up a year or heading off to sixth form or college, getting organised early can help make those first few weeks feel that little bit easier.
The good news? You can tick off almost everything on your back-to-school checklist while supporting the fantastic independent and local businesses in Bognor Regis.
Here’s where to start.
Why It’s Worth Getting Organised Early
Leaving everything until the last minute often means queues, limited stock and unnecessary stress.
By starting your shopping early, you’ll have plenty of time to make sure everything fits, replace anything that’s missing and enjoy the final weeks of the summer holidays without rushing around.
Better still, shopping locally means you’re supporting the businesses that help keep Bognor Regis thriving.
School Shoes
A comfortable, well-fitting pair of school shoes is one of the most important purchases for the new term.
Clarks on London Road offers expert fitting to help growing feet stay comfortable throughout the school day, giving you peace of mind that they’ll be ready for whatever the term brings.
School Uniform and PE Kits
JW Sports on the High Street has become a go-to destination for school uniforms and PE kits for families across the area.
Whether you’re replacing a jumper that’s been outgrown or buying a complete set for a new starter, it’s worth getting organised before the late summer rush.
Uniform Labels and Embroidery
New uniform has a habit of finding its way into someone else’s bag.
Unique Workwear on London Road can help personalise clothing with embroidered names and provide uniform labels that make lost property a little less likely.
Stationery and Revision Essentials
Fresh notebooks, pens, folders and revision materials often help pupils feel ready for a new term.
Graham Press on London Road has everything you need to stock up, whether you’re buying for primary school or preparing for GCSEs and A Levels.
Encourage a Love of Reading
There’s nothing quite like choosing a brand-new book.
A visit to Heygates Bookshop is the perfect opportunity to help children discover their next favourite story, pick up a reading challenge or simply encourage a little more reading before term begins.
Lunchboxes, Water Bottles and School Essentials
Need a new lunchbox? Water bottle? Pencil case?
Bubbles Bargain World is packed with practical school essentials that help you tick off those last few items on the list without breaking the budget.
Fresh Haircuts for a Fresh Start
Many families like to start the new school year with a fresh haircut.
Bognor Regis is home to a fantastic range of independent barbers and hair salons, making it easy to book everyone in before the first day back.
Healthy Lunchbox Fillers
Getting back into packed lunch mode is much easier when you’re stocked up in advance.
Alongside the town’s supermarkets, don’t forget about Bognor Regis’ Eastern European food shops, many of which have excellent deli counters offering fresh meats, cheeses and other lunchbox favourites.
It’s a great way to try something a little different while supporting local businesses.
Sixth Form and College Style
Starting sixth form or college often means a different dress code.
Whether you’re looking for smart everyday outfits or something stylish that helps build confidence for a new chapter, Boutique Roma offers fashionable clothing that’s perfect for older students.
Celebrate with an After-School Treat
Once everything’s ticked off the list, why not reward yourselves?
Bognor Regis has some wonderful independent cafés where you can enjoy a hot chocolate, slice of cake or a well-earned coffee after a successful shopping trip. It’s the perfect way to celebrate being ready for the new school year.
A Handy Back-to-School Checklist
Before the first day arrives, make sure you’ve got:
- School shoes
- School uniform
- PE kit
- Uniform labels
- School bag
- Lunchbox
- Water bottle
- Pencil case
- Pens and pencils
- Exercise books and stationery
- Reading book
- Haircut booked
- Lunchbox snacks
- New term outfit for sixth form or college (if needed)
Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to mean heading out of town.
From school uniforms and stationery to books, lunches and after-school treats, Bognor Regis’s independent businesses have so much to offer.
By shopping locally this September, you’re not only getting organised for the new school year, you’re also helping to support the businesses that make our town such a special place to shop.
