Avoid the back to school rush
It might be early in the summer holidays, but it won’t be long before that back to school feeling starts creeping up.
If your kids are starting or going back to school this September, make life easier for yourself by sorting out a few of the essentials early in the holidays.
Uniforms
School uniform can be expensive, if you’re worried about how you will afford it this year then consider contacting the Uniform Exchange. They offer good quality second hand uniforms to families in need, so no one needs to go without. And if you have spare uniform to donate, use the link above to find out how to do this.
Bus passes
Make sure your child isn’t left behind this September (literally) by ordering a bus pass online. The form takes ten minutes to complete, you just need a photo of your child and the applicant’s National Insurance number (most likely yours) before you start. Bus passes are sent out in late August.
Free school meals
All children in Reception and Key Stage 1 get free school meals, but from year 3, you need to apply to claim free school meals for your children if you are eligible. Check out whether they are eligible and apply online on our website. If you’re eligible you need to have both you and your partner’s National Insurance Number or NASS (National Asylum Support Service) number to hand when you apply.
Dates for your diary
It’s always worth double checking school term dates, and knowing when they’re next breaking up. The general dates for 2020/21 are now confirmed – but always remember to double check specific dates for your school before booking a holiday.
For younger children
And if your children are not yet at school age, make sure you’ve applied for your 30 hours free childcare by 1 September. Get all the details on the Childcare Choices website.
And finally
If you’re struggling to keep the kids entertained this summer, check out our Facebook page; we’re sharing loads of great ideas of things to see and do this summer!