{"id":1278,"date":"2026-02-04T14:32:43","date_gmt":"2026-02-04T14:32:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.edumentors.co.uk\/?p=1278"},"modified":"2026-03-13T10:26:15","modified_gmt":"2026-03-13T10:26:15","slug":"8-ways-to-prepare-for-back-to-school","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/edumentors.co.uk\/blog\/8-ways-to-prepare-for-back-to-school\/","title":{"rendered":"8 Ways to Prepare for Back to School in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Why is it Important to Prepare for Going Back to School?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Back to School – How to Prepare Your Teenager for the First Term<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Whether your child was waiting their whole summer for GCSE results day or they didn\u2019t have a worry in the world and enjoyed every minute of it, it\u2019s still stressful to go back to school. However, they can’t avoid school if they want to have a successful future. Hence, All that is left is to stand by them, give them support and help them prepare for this dreadful day. Parent’s support is essential for all children – teenagers may not show it, but they need it too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also, this does not mean that children who adore school can\u2019t benefit from your help with preparing. In fact, Educationquizzes did a survey<\/a> on 3448 children and turns out, that 70% of students actually love going to school. Not all of them love it because they are learning something new (only 31%), some like it because of their friends, but still, it\u2019s more than half!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Do Children Enjoy School? – Source: Educationquizzes<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

How Parents Can Help Before the First Day of School<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1. Help Them Improve Their Sleeping Routine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The older the children get, it gets harder to control their sleeping schedule. Don\u2019t be too harsh on them though. Teenagers need more sleep than us<\/a>. Their hormones shift their biological clock forward by one or two hours. Help them develop good sleeping habits with understanding and care! Explain why is it important to have a good sleeping routine and help them with developing it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. School Supply Shopping Before Going Back to School<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

School Supplies for Back to School<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Notebooks, highlighters, pens, pencils \u2013 whatever it takes for your child to be good at school, right? Abigail Sharp, vice president of early childhood initiatives at United Way of Metropolitan<\/a> says: \u201cHaving their own personal supplies contributes to their overall excitement and motivation to learn\u201d. Having interesting and unique school supplies may not seem like something you see as a motivation. However, studies show that having school supplies improve children\u2019s grades, overall self-image, peer relationships and more<\/a>\u2026 If they did great on their previous serious exams, one of the best gits for passing exams can be an iPad. It\u2019s good for note-taking and also, can boost their motivation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The earlier you start your shopping for school supplies spree, the better. In 2022, parents are spending more money on school supplies due to inflation and supply chain problems. It\u2019s expected that this year\u2019s back-to-school spending will break the last year\u2019s record with $37 billion spent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

School Uniforms<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

In addition, there may be a short supply of school uniforms in the UK<\/a>. \u201cMany families delay buying school uniforms until the last minute for financial reasons or to avoid being caught out by a summer growth spurt.\u201d \u2013 says Zoe Wood in Guardian.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hence, the earlier you get these over with, the better. However, don\u2019t forget to be mindful of others and don\u2019t buy more than you need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Be sure to avoid scams. Many people use this opportunity to sell you \u201ccheaper stuff\u201d or lure you with coupons. If it\u2019s too good to be true, it probably is. Hence, be careful if you opt for online shopping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Find New Studying Methods to Make Going Back to School Less Scary<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Someone said to me once \u201clearn how to learn first\u201d and I understood that quite late in life. Students may spend hours studying, but still, get bad grades on exams. That does not mean they are not capable of doing well, they might be just using passive studying methods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also, if your child struggles with some kind of learning disability (ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia) it might be helpful to search for hacks for these specifically. For example, to-dos may work for neurotypicals like a charm, but for people with ADHD, they are pretty much useless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, finding new studying methods<\/a> can benefit every student, not only students who struggle. Learning smarter<\/a> can save them time to learn even more, even if they are not falling behind in school. Thinking of exams is early, nevertheless, knowing revision methods<\/a> or how to maintain mental health during exam season<\/a> ahead of time won\u2019t hurt!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Encourage Them to Do Productive Things Before Going Back to School<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s hard to switch to learning mode after not doing much for a while. Hence, it\u2019s important to start doing things that will make them ready for a new school year. Have a reading marathon, play board games, and watch educational movies. For example, if your child is now choosing their GCSEs<\/a> or choosing their A level subjects, watch documentaries about different topics from different subjects. It will be fun, educational, and it will help with choosing their subjects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Revisit School Material<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Back to School – Revisiting School Material<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Help them go over old topics in all subjects. Make sure they will be able to catch up on lessons on the first day. It\u2019s important to be consistent with studying. Hence, make sure they won\u2019t be missing lessons just because they could not study the material in time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, don\u2019t put too much pressure on them in the first few weeks. It\u2019s difficult to get used to school again, so their school performance might not be perfect. However, don\u2019t forget to encourage good attendance. It\u2019s hard to catch up after you miss a few lessons. Therefore, if they feel overwhelmed, help them make timetables and to-do lists so that they can get on track faster with your support \u2013 whether it be emotional support or assistance with time management.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Try to Find out Why Exactly They Dread Going Back to School<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Emotional Struggles<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

School can be really stressful and the more your child hates the school, the more they dread the arrival of a new year. First of all, their emotions are legitimate, even if they don\u2019t make sense to you. Remember, sometimes teenagers don\u2019t want to share their problems with their parents. Hence, don\u2019t be sure you know why they dread school so much. It might be just because of the stress of homework, presentations and etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe they just don\u2019t want the responsibility of learning every day. Make them a relaxing cup of tea<\/a> before the first day of school, give them a little pep talk and remind them why school is great. You can share your past struggles and make them feel understood. The older they get, the more responsibility they have. If they are just starting their GCSE courses or A-level courses, tell them about your experience and that there is no need to worry!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Needs Additional Help With University Admissions<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

If they are worried about university admissions ahead of time, there is always an option to find someone experienced to help them with university counselling, writing a good personal statement and interview preparation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, check out one of the tutors on Edumentors – Conall from the University of Cambridge<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI’ve been tutoring for several years, and I have had the pleasure of seeing my students receive their offers at Cambridge this year following a course of tutorials.\u201d – says Conall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Needs Additional Help With Studying<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

There is another reason why your child might hate school \u2013 they are not \u201cas good as others\u201d. School systems can\u2019t physically work for everyone. Some students are just slower learners or teachers don\u2019t use teaching methods that work for the child\u2019s learning style. That\u2019s not a problem that can\u2019t be solved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nevertheless, try to find the root of the problem since anxiety can majorly interfere with their studies. Anxiety causes panic attacks, sleeping problems, it makes it hard to concentrate and etc. Teenagers already feel things on a deeper level, so ensure that you are giving them mental support, even if you don\u2019t see the need at that moment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Child Doesn’t Feel Safe at School<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Teenagers may also stress about school because of bullying which is not something to ignore easily. Bullying sometimes can\u2019t even be controlled by the teachers, because they might not even see it happening. If this is something you worry about, please don\u2019t brush your anxieties away, read what to do if your child gets bullied at school<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Consider Additional Help<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Back to School – Tutoring Session<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Firstly, If you\u2019ve tried tutors last year and you want to secure a place in their schedule, go for it, before someone else does.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you\u2019ve seen your child struggle with schoolwork before and now you are not sure if they can do it alone this year, you might be considering tutoring. This is a hectic world we live in and parents not always can help, so don\u2019t worry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A teaching union states<\/a> that there might be a crisis in 2022 since there is a lack of backup teachers. Even if the school has enough staff, they might still have to cut teaching staff<\/a> if the government does not help them. The energy bills are rising and schools are not covered by the energy price cap<\/a> and some schools can’t afford that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also, schools might also have to increase classroom sizes. This will make learning for some students even harder. Big classrooms don’t give teachers the opportunity to pay attention to every child individually. Hence, even if your child normally does well in school, they might still benefit from having a tutor supporting them academically this year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Can a Tutor Help?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

\u201cEdumentors have really helped my son with his Maths. He looks forward to his lessons. His tutor is friendly, patient, organised and explains things in a way that relate to my son.\u201d – writes Becky, one of the parents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tutors can be a great help, they can provide your child with anything from help with homework<\/a>, help with the application process to universities, and emotional support to help with choosing subjects for qualification exams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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For example, one of the tutors on Edumentors – Jenna from the University of Warwick<\/a>. She says: \u201cAlthough I love my subjects, I know how disheartening and challenging school can be. For that reason, I am here to provide help and guidance during this stressful period.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

However, you need to choose what type of tutor your child needs first \u2013 an in-person tutor, a group tutor or an online tutor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pros and Cons of Different Tutoring Options<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

In-person tutoring is considered most productive since they are meeting face-to-face, but since the pandemic started, we saw that online learning<\/a> can be as beneficial if not more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Group tutoring can be the best for someone who likes working with others, doing group projects and learning best from discussions. Nevertheless, some children are shy and can\u2019t quite articulate their thoughts with other students around. Also, this can defeat the purpose of private tutors \u2013 personalized lessons! Group lessons can be found both in-person and online too, so pick whichever works for you first before looking for group tutors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What about the benefits of online tutoring<\/a>? It can be cost-effective since neither you nor your child\u2019s tutor will need to use transport and it is convenient since it saves time too. In addition, there are so many online tutors and you are not limited to tutors near you! Speaking of not being limited, it\u2019s way easier to find the right tutor online than in-person. There are many great tutors<\/a> who teach only online or live far away and you can miss out on them if you go for face-to-face tuition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also, let\u2019s not forget the convenience and flexibility of online tutoring. It\u2019s easier to schedule and reschedule lessons. They can have sessions after sunset without fear of the road back or for example, your child can even study when you are on vacation!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. Find <\/strong><\/a>A Tutor Before Going Back to School<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You might be wondering how to get life changing tutoring with the help of the internet<\/a>. Firstly, you need to decide if you want to find an independent tutor or a tutor who works for a tutoring company. If you choose independent private tutors, you can use different social media to find them, like Reddit, Facebook and others. Be sure to check their credentials carefully though.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You are free to choose, however, online tutoring services are way safer and more reliable. You can find genuine reviews of other parents and most of the platforms require a background check before hiring. One of the best online tutoring websites is Edumentors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tutors on Edumentors are enthusiastic about teaching and can adjust to any child and provide them with the help that they need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI like to customise my teaching methodology and lesson length in accordance with my students’ academic\/personal goals. I would like to share my interests with you and help you uncover your academic potential, develop your personal skills and help you find your favourite academic pursuit. I look forward to meeting you and guiding you through your journey to achieving your goals!\u201d – says one of the great tutors on Edumentors, Lisa from the University of Cambridge<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To Sum Up<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While it is important to prepare for back to school on your own, you can always refer to some external help to make things easy for your teenager. There are plenty of experienced online tutors on edumentors.co.uk<\/a> who can provide personalised learning support to them. Edumentors only hires tutors from UK’s top universities such as Cambridge, Oxford, Durham, etc. so these tutors know how to get into their dream universities first-hand. Plus, as one of the requirements, every tutor has to have a DBS check so you’re safe on that side too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Book a free introductory session with a tutor of your choice and see how well they get along with your child. Tutors who recently passed GCSE and A level exams and got into their dream university usually have more to share than school teachers. See if it works for your child too and feel free to check another article about how should the first meeting of student and tutor go<\/a> to be as ready as you can be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Going back to school can be made so much less stressful and even made engaging for teenagers and you are already on a good track for reading this article and preparing for it beforehand. Take a few notes from what you just read and check other edu-mentors<\/a> who could be of help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

FAQs:<\/h3>\n\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t

When do kids go back to school in 2026?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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In England and Wales, most pupils go back in early September 2026. There isn\u2019t one national date, because term dates are set by local councils and individual schools. GOV.UK points families to their local council to check exact dates. In Scotland, pupils usually return in August<\/strong>, not September. For example, Glasgow\u2019s published dates show pupils returning on Wednesday 12 August 2026.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t

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How long is summer break in the UK?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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For most state schools, the summer holiday is about six weeks, although it can sometimes stretch to around seven weeks depending on how term dates fall<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t

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Do all schools in the UK start in September?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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No. Most schools in England and Wales start in September, but Scotland typically starts in August, and start dates can vary across councils and independent schools. The safest rule is simple: check the school calendar or the local council term dates for your area.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t

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Is school harder in the US or UK?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t\t<\/summary>\n\t\t\t\t
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Neither is \u201charder\u201d in a single, clean way, they pressure students differently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The UK tends to feel harder because progress often hinges on high-stakes exams (GCSEs and A-Levels), with less room to average things out over the year. The US can feel harder because performance is spread across continuous assessment, GPA, coursework, and often extracurricular expectations. Which is tougher depends on whether a student performs better under final exams or steady, ongoing workload.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/details>\n\t\t\n