Back to school: the best uniform essentials for boys and girls

The end of the six-week holidays is nigh, so now is the best time to snap up some uniform bargains for the new school year.

If you’re not sure where to find the best deals, don’t fret. We’ve searched for some of the best value-for-money uniform pieces from brands including George at Asda – with prices starting from £2 – and Debenhams.

Whether your mini-me is a junior or heading off to secondary school, here are our top school clothing picks to smarten them up for the classroom.

Shirts

John Lewis Girls' Long Sleeve Fitted Pure Cotton School Blouse in White

A neat white blouse is essential for your little girl’s first day back in the classroom, and this pure-cotton John Lewis offering is fitted for a smart finish. The long sleeves will keep her warm as the chilly autumn season approaches.

From £10, John Lewis, Buy it now

George Boys School 2 Pack Long Sleeve Slim Fit Shirts in White

You can count on Asda for good quality and great value, and this two-pack of long-sleeve white shirts is a superb example. Its slim fit will have your little lad looking dapper in the playground, while the easy-to-iron fabric makes things easier on busy mornings.

From £3.50, Asda, Buy it now

M&S 2 Pack Girls' Slim Fit Non-Iron Blouses

With non-iron and stain-resistant finishes, these short-sleeve blouses will ensure that young madams are be prepared for almost everything the day has in store. They come in a regular fit and feature a narrower cut through the waist, making them easier to pair with skirts. Also available in blue.

From £8, Marks and Spencer, Buy it now

Trousers

Debenhams Pack of two boys' grey flat front school trousers

If your boy is a bit on the slim side, then these flat-front trousers – fitted with an elasticated adjustable waistband – should do the trick. Not only are they a breeze to iron, but also designed with a stain and water-repellent finish.

From £8.80, Debenhams, Buy it now

New Look Teens Black Pocket Trim Trousers

Made with a soft finish for added comfort, these pocket trim trousers are easy to pull on during the morning rush and come in a casual fit with zip-fly fastening. Available in regular and long sizes for girls aged between 9-15 years.

£9.99, New Look, Buy it now

Debenhams Pack of two Boy's Black Pleat Front School Trousers

This classic trouser style provides a sharp look for the new school term. The pleat-front tailoring is just the ticket for boys who are slightly wider around the waist and thighs. They also have an adjustable waistband to ensure a perfect fit.

From £8, Debenhams, Buy it now

Skirts and dresses

Debenhams Girls' pack of two grey kilt school skirts

With its classic cut, this pleated kilt skirt should stay comfortable throughout the day. It’ durable design features stay-pressed pleats, an elasticated waistband and water and stain-resistant finishes.

From £8, Debenhams, Buy it now

George Girls School Drop Waist Pinafore in Navy

A drop waist and permanent pleats makes this pinny dress a lovely addition to her uniform wardrobe. Complete with front zip fastening and a heart charm, it has a smart-looking fit that will look great in the school photos. Its Teflon finish will also keep stains at bay.

£5, Asda, Buy it now

Cover-ups

F&F School Unisex Sweatshirt With As New Technology

Little tykes can beat the chill in the upcoming season with this cotton-rich sweatshirt from F&F. Thanks to the ‘As New’ finish, it should last well beyond the school year and stay bobble-free It’s ideal for wearing over polo shirts and comes in five other colours.

From £3, Tesco Direct, Buy it now

George Girls School Scallop Trim Cardigan

When it’s time to pull out the woollies, this timeless scallop trim cardigan should keep off the chill. Crafted from pure cotton and with long-lasting colour, it’s a lovely finishing touch for almost any girls’ uniform and should keep its shape all year.

From £4, Asda, Buy it now

John Lewis Boys' School Eco Blazer in Black

If your little man is starting secondary school this year, then he’ll need a smart blazer to wear over those crisp shirts. This simple eco-friendly design, crafted using light-absorbing Octalobal yarn, offers a fitted finish and two spacious inside pockets for holding essentials like pens and coins.

From £22, John Lewis, Buy it now

M&S Senior Girls' Adjust-a-cuff Blazer with Triple Action Stormwear

Older girls can feel polished and ready for exam preparation in this regular-fit blazer. As well as a Triple Action Stormwear finish for keeping her dry in the rain, it’s also created with ink-resist lining in the inside chest pocket to keep pen stains at bay. Available in black or navy.

From £24, Marks and Spencer, Buy it now

Shoes

M&S Kids' Freshfeet Leather Ballet Pumps with Insolia Flex & Silver Technology

Not only do ballet pumps work wonderfully with girls’ school uniform, but are also incredibly comfy for your little madam to totter around the playground in. This durable leather pair from Marks and Spencer features scruff-resistant toes to make cleaning off marks a doddle.

From £20, Marks and Spencer, Buy it now

Kickers Boy's Black Hi Boots

Kickers is one of the leading names when it comes to school shoes for good reason – its durable footwear is built with practicality and comfort in mind. Created with sturdy rubber soles, the iconic Hi Boots will stand up to the wear and tear your little man puts them through.

£59.99, Office, Buy it now

Lelli Kelly School Shoes

Another popular brand of children’s shoes, Lelli Kelly is known for its exquisite adornments and shiny patent finish. Durable and versatile, these classic rip-tape shoes will help her look forward to getting ready for school while supporting her growing feet.

£39.90, John Lewis, Buy it now