The leap from lazy beach days to school drop-offs can feel like a big change for the whole family. So, we’ve put together a handy checklist of convenient, quality back-to-school essentials for 2026.
Prep the lunchboxes
The new year is a great time to refresh lunchboxes and containers, making sure everything is practical, leak-proof and ready. Batch-cooking healthy lunchbox and snack options can make all the difference to stress-free mornings, while ensuring balanced, nutritious meals each day.
1) Fox & Fallow Lunch Bag, BOOK FACE | 2) Frank Green franksters Ceramic Reusable Bottle, Kidstuff | 3) GoBe 2-in-1 Lunchbox, Sweet Thing
Sort the stationery
It’s not just about purchasing school supplies early — it’s about investing in quality items that last the whole term. From notebooks to pens, art supplies and visual diaries, these items bring a dash of inspiration and confidence to the new school year.
1) Legami Milano 2-in-1 Silicone Pencil Case, Nextra St Ives Village Newsagency | 2) Legami Milano Squishy Gel Pens, Nextra St Ives Village Newsagency | 3) Mont Marte Premium Visual Diary and Art Supplies, Nextra St Ives Village Newsagency
Secure the shoes
The right shoes are essential for comfort, confidence and healthy growing feet. Well-fitted school shoes provide the support kids need for long days of learning. Shoe Guru and ECCO make finding the perfect pair easy, with expert fitting advice and durable styles designed to keep up with busy days.
1) Clarks School Shoes, Shoe Guru | 2) Clarks Back-To-School Kit, Shoe Guru | 3) Kids’ ECCO Soft 60 Leather Sneaker, ECCO Shoes
Check the tech
Technology plays a bigger role than ever in the classroom, so reliable devices and accessories are essential. From keeping devices in good working order to ensuring headphones are comfortable for daily use, having the right tech makes learning more fun.
1) Baseus Magnetic Mini Air Wireless Fast Charge Power Bank, AHA Technology Mobile | 2) Quality Refurbished MacBooks and iPhone (backed by 1-year warranty), M.A.C. LI Technology | 3) Moki Mixi Type-C Connect Wired Volume Limited Headphones, Kidstuff | 4) JBL Kids Wireless On-Ear Headphones, AHA Technology Mobile
Freshen the uniforms
You can get your uniforms first day ready with a freshen up at XL Dry Cleaning. Custom embroidered labels from Sweet Thing will ensure nothing goes missing once the school year’s underway.
1) Dry Cleaning, XL Dry Cleaners | 2) Personalised Embroidery Name Tags, Sweet Thing
Whether it’s stocking up on quality school supplies, sorting uniforms or meal prepping those daily lunches, your best school year yet starts at St Ives Shopping Village.
