Stepping into secondary school: the River Island lookbook

So your little one is not so little anymore and is starting secondary school…! There are lots of things for you to organise before September comes around, but first things first: time to shop. 

We have a shopping list with the items your child will need to be school ready, River Island has helped us create some girls and boys lookbooks for a bit of inspiration, plus there’s a 15% off discount code for River Island when you spend £30+!

We recommend going a little bigger when buying a coat for a bit of extra growing room, and especially if your child will wear a blazer to school. The Girls Black Padded High Shine Coat is padded and fleece-lined to combat the yucky British winter, plus it’s GOT POCKETS!

Let’s face it, rain in the UK is an inevitability. When the skies open, the Girls White Glitter Hooded Rain Coat is a great way for your child to stay dry.

Your kid’s school shoes are going to go through a lot, so you’ll need a pair that look good, are super comfy and scuff resistant. Luckily, River Island’s Girls Black Patent Bow Loafers are all three.

In secondary school, your child is going to carry a lot more books around with them, so it’s best to get something that can hold them all comfortably, alongside everything else your child will need for the school day. The Girls Cream Embossed Monogram Backpack has adjustable straps for comfort and a handy water bottle holder so there will be plenty of room left inside.

Pencil cases are practical, but let’s be real, they’re mainly a way for your child to show off their personal style. That’s where the gorgeous Girls Black Embossed Monogram Pencil Case comes in.

For a super warm and shower proof coat, the Boy Black Padded Jacket is a real winner. Don’t forget to size up for when that growth spurt kicks in!

Too warm for a coat but still a little chilly? That’s where the gilet comes in. The Boys Black Wave Padded Gilet is super smart and even has a pack away hood for rainy days.

Shoe rules vary from school to school. Some just ask for them to be black, whereas others have more particular rules on style and fit. The Boys Black Embossed Velcro Trainers are sturdy, comfy shoes if your child’s school is a bit more relaxed on what they have on their feet, or they could be used for PE.