The Ultimate Back-to-School Checklist

Yolandi Botes
6 days ago
3 min read

The festive season is officially upon us. The Christmas tree is up, the braai fires are lit, and the last thing any parent wants to think about is school shoes and geometry sets.

However, seasoned parents know the "January Scramble" is a real and terrifying phenomenon. There is nothing quite as stressful as running from store to store on the 13th of January, looking for a specific size of blazer or a particular brand of glue that is sold out nationwide.

The secret to a stress-free holiday is getting the "admin" done now. We have partnered with School-Supplies-Potch to compile the definitive checklist.

1. The Uniform: Function Meets Durability

Learners grow at an alarming rate, especially over the summer holidays.

The "Grow-Into" Strategy: When buying blazers and jerseys, aim for a size slightly larger than currently needed, but not so big that your child looks like they are wearing a tent. Sleeves can be hemmed up and released later.
The Essentials: Grey/Khaki trousers, skirts/tunics, and crisp white shirts (buy at least 3 to reduce mid-week laundry stress).
The "Disappearables": Socks and ties have legs of their own. If you think you need 3 pairs of socks, buy 5. You will thank us in June.
Footwear: Quality black school shoes are non-negotiable. Look for genuine leather that can be polished and nourished to withstand the playground.

2. Stationery: Quality Over Quantity

There is a massive difference between a R5.00 glue stick and the one the teacher actually asked for. Cheap stationery often breaks, dries out, or doesn't work, frustrating your child in the classroom. School-Supplies-Potch stocks the trusted brands (Staedtler, Pritt, Croxley) that last.

The Writing Arsenal: Blue pens (bulk packs, they run out!), HB pencils, and a full set of highlighters.
Maths Matters: A shatterproof ruler (30cm), a robust geometry set (metal compasses last longer), and the Casio Scientific Calculator. Note: Ensure you get the specific model model requested by the high school, as functions differ.
Books & Covers: Hardcover counter books, exam pads, and flip-files. Pro-tip: Buy the pre-made slip-on plastic covers. They save hours of cutting and taping the night before school starts.

3. Specialized Gear: Art & Technology

This is where chain stores often fail parents. Specialized subjects require specialized tools.

Art Supplies: Teachers are specific about paint brands (like Dala or Reeves) because the pigment quality matters for the final mark. Don't forget oil pastels, charcoal sticks, and a variety of brush sizes.
Tech Drawing: For technical subjects, you may need specific clutch pencils (0.3mm or 0.5mm), set squares, and scale rulers. School-Supplies-Potch understands these technical requirements.

4. The Carrier System: Bags & Cases

A school bag is the learner's office. It gets thrown on the bus, kicked under desks, and dragged across fields.

Ergonomics is Key: Textbooks are heavy. Invest in a brand like Totem or Boomerang that offers orthopedic back support. A cheap bag can cause long-term back issues for a growing child.
Pencil Cases: A 33cm case is best (to fit the ruler inside!). Consider a "space case" for younger kids or a durable fabric zip bag for high schoolers.
Lunch Time: Insulated cooler bags and high-quality, BPA-free water bottles that don't leak in the bag are essential for the Potch heat.

5. The "Forgotten" Essentials

Label Everything: If you like it, label it. From individual pencils to blazers.
Sports Kit: House shirts, Quantec shorts, and swimwear. Don't forget the accessories like mouthguards (for hockey/rugby) and shin pads.
Hair Accessories: For the girls, stock up on school-colour elastics and ribbons.