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Give School Supplies a Second Life

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A group of primary school age children walk along a pavement with their teacher.

With the new school year just around the corner, you may be about to buy uniforms, stationery, revision guides, and everything else that comes with getting your children back into their classrooms. But preparing for September doesn't have to mean spending a fortune or generating lots of waste.

A few swaps can save money, reduce waste, and keep useful items in circulation for longer.

Give books a second life

Before buying brand-new textbooks, revision guides or reading books, check out second-hand options. Websites such as World of Books sell millions of pre-loved books, often at a fraction of the price of new copies. More than 100 million books have been rehomed through its platform, helping to save money and reduce waste.

Similarly, once your child has finished with their books, consider passing them on, donating them, or selling them so another student can use them.

Shop second-hand for school uniform

School uniforms can be expensive, especially when children grow quickly. Uniform exchanges are a great way to save money while preventing good-quality clothing from ending up in landfill.

Research second-hand uniform swaps available in your area, such as those put on by a school or community group. For example, families in north Oxfordshire can access the Banbury Uniform Exchange, a community project that helps parents access pre-owned school uniform. It aims to support families while promoting sustainable living by keeping clothing in use for longer (crowdfunder.co.uk).

Cut down on lunchtime waste

Packed lunches can generate a surprising amount of rubbish over the course of a school year. Small changes soon add up:

  • Use a reusable lunchbox and drinks bottle instead of disposable packaging.
  • Buy larger packs of snacks and divide them into reusable containers.
  • Choose washable cloth napkins over paper towels.
  • Avoid individually wrapped items where possible.

Think before you print

School forms, letters and homework sheets increasingly arrive digitally. When printing is necessary, print double-sided if possible and only print the pages you need.

For rough work, maths practice or creative projects, keep a supply of scrap paper made from used sheets that are blank on one side.

Make stationery last

Before buying new pencil cases and stationery, see what can be reused from last year. Pens, rulers, folders and calculators often have plenty of life left in them.

If new items are needed, look for refillable pens, durable products that last longer, or recycled materials where available.

Swap, share, and borrow

Many families have cupboards full of barely used school supplies. Consider organising swaps with friends, neighbours or other parents. Sharing items such as scientific calculators, musical instruments, or sports equipment can save money and reduce unnecessary consumption.

Next steps

Small changes, big impact

Try challenging yourself to at least one of the above sustainable swaps. Your wallet and the planet will thank you.

Preparing for a new school year can be busy and expensive, but a few thoughtful choices can reduce waste, cut costs and support a more circular economy. Whether it's buying a second-hand revision guide, picking up pre-loved uniform, or packing a waste-free lunch, every small action helps.

 

Togetherwe canmake a difference