Yes, you've guessed it - just when it seems that the summer has started, it's already time to start thinking about getting back into the school routine!

 
Now we know that there's plenty of stress that surrounds going back to school - from the anxiety your kids might be feeling to the strain the season can put on your wallet (who knew school supplies could be so pricey!)
 
But thankfully Swindon town centre has got everything you need to prepare your kids for the start of the new school term.

  
Back to school essentials
 
School uniform
 
For blazers, jumpers, shirts, blouses, ties or trousers, there are plenty of top quality options.
 
Marks and Spencer
 
M&S cater for girls and boys from the age range of 2 to 16 years.
 
And with their clever ideas like non-iron material, it's going to save mum bags of time!
 
> M&S - more info
 
Trutex
 
Situated in the Brunel Shopping Centre, Trutex specialise in school uniforms and cater for all ages incl. a specialist junior range.
 
> Trutex - more info
 
Primark
 
Whether you're making a last minute purchase or looking for a back to school bargain - Primark is bound to have it. Stocking blouses, shirts, ties, footwear, sweaters, cardigans, jumpers, trousers, jackets, and coats.
 
> Primark - more info
  
Shoes
 
Finish their back-to-school look off with a stylish pair of kids' shoes tough enough to take a day in the playground.
 
Best stop here the Parade where you'll find Clarks and Debenhams.
 
> Clarks - more info
> Debenhams - more info
 
Backpacks
 
Now this is one accessory you have to get right! Parents, it may just seem like a bag to you, but a backpack is a statement for most kids, so pick one that's going to be practical but trendy at the same time! Argos have a really good range.

> Argos - more info
 
PE Kit 
 
It's not everyone's favourite lesson in the world - but buy them some new football boots or a PE skirt and at least they'll want to show-off their latest gear.
 
Sports Direct have a variety of sports wear on offer.
 
From plimsolls, shorts and T-shirts they have the latest kit to get your kids ready for all those sports activities.
 
> Sport Direct - more info
 
JD Sports have put together their 'best of the best in class!' guide so you can buy the latest trends this season.
 
Stocking PE kit for both girls and boys.
 
> JD Sports - more info
 
Stationary
 
From pens to paper, rulers to rubbers - send your kids back to school with a full pencil case.
 
> WH Smiths - more info
> Ryman - more info
> Inkspot - more info
> Paperbox - more info
 
Laptops
 
Things aren’t the way they used to be, a laptop is a necessary piece of equipment for older pupils and college students, and it’s becoming that way for those in secondary school and primary school as well.
 
Whether your child needs to type up their notes in class or research their history paper while on the go, purchasing a decent laptop will prove to be a sound investment in their education.
 
> Currys - more info 
 
And if your budget will allow...
 
Purchase a Mac notebook, or an iPad from Western computers in the Brunel Centre.
 
> Western Computers - more info
 
Take a break...
 
And for all the hard work, don't foget to treat yourselves mum's and dad's while doing the shopping. Put your feet up and enjoy a coffee.
 
> Cafe Nero - more info
> Starbucks - more info
> Boswell's - more info
> BB's Cafe - more info
> Chris Deli and Cafe - more info
> Kirty's Cafe - more info
 
How to get to Swindon town centre...
 
With the reduced costs in car parking charges now in place, it's the perfect time to spend an extra hour or two in town. If you can put up with the kids for that long, that is!
 
- £1 to park for up to an hour
- £2 for up to 4 hours

at the Brunel North, Brunel West and Fleming Way car parks.
 
By Bus...
 
With the town centre bus station just a minute's walk from the shops, a trip on the bus can save a lot of time and money - espcially the Thamesdown Transport £4.30 deal for an adult and two children.
 
One day’s unrestricted travel on all Thamesdown and Stagecoach buses in the Swindon urban area.
 
Adult £3.20
Child £2.20
Adult & Kids * £4.30
Family * £6.50 
* One adult and up to 3 children
** Two adults and up to 3 children

> Thamesdown Transport - website
 
Finishing touches...
 
Gone are the days where you can just stick a bowl on their head and cut round! Back to school hairstyles have to accomplish an awful lot; they need to be both stylish and low-maintenance, so your kids can make a good impression without wasting time while they're hurrying to get ready for school in the morning.

 

Hairdressers and barbers
 
> Goldworthy's - more info

> Toni & Guy - more info

 

> Chesterfields - more info 

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