Wilmslow…Back to School is Just Around the Corner… Here’s Everything You Need to Get Term-Ready
The end of summer is fast approaching and for many parents, that means ticking off the ‘back to school’ checklist. From crisp new uniforms to perfectly sharpened pencils, the start of a new term is an exciting time, but it can also be a hectic one.
The good news?
Wilmslow has everything you need right on your doorstep, with over 75 independent shops and local businesses ready to help.
Supporting these businesses isn’t just about convenience, it’s about keeping money in the local community. When you buy from a local shop or use a local service, spend often goes straight back into the area, helping to create jobs, fuel fresh ideas and keep our high street thriving.
So, this September, skip the big online retailers (if you can) and make Wilmslow your go-to destination for all things back to school.
Here’s your guide to where you can find everything you need for the new term.
School Uniforms & Alterations
A fresh uniform can set the tone for the year ahead. For affordable, durable school wear, for shirts, trousers, skirts and more – this can be ordered online from Sainsbury’s TU range, Tesco F&F range and John Lewis. Then delivered to Sainsbury’s on Alderley Road, Tesco on Alderley Road and Waitrose (John Lewis) on Church Street for convenient collection.
If last year’s uniforms just need a tweak, The Zip Yard and Golden Stitches are your local experts for alterations and repairs, ensuring every item fits perfectly and lasts longer.
School Shoes & Sports Kit
A good pair of shoes is essential for school life. If last year’s still fit but are looking a bit worn, Mark Rogers Shoe Repair can work wonders to bring them back to life. Mark even offers engraving services, so you can personalise kit and make sure it doesn’t get lost.
For brand new trainers or PE essentials, Run North West stocks high-quality sportswear and footwear to suit all active needs.
When it comes to traditional school shoes, both Clarks Shoes and Charles Clinkard are Wilmslow favourites, offering a wide choice of sizes and fittings to keep growing feet comfortable all day.
Stationery & School Supplies
Nothing beats the excitement of fresh stationery before a new term. Whether you need notebooks, pencil cases, pens, art supplies, or textbooks, TG Jones (previously WH Smiths), Ryman, The Works, Stationery Supplies and Waterstones have you covered. These shops cater for all budgets, from simple essentials to premium supplies.
For those last-minute printing jobs, laminating, or parcel sending, Mailboxes Etc. is your one-stop service point, making it easy to get those school projects and paperwork sorted in time.
Lunch Boxes & Water Bottles
A new school year calls for practical and fun lunch accessories. Argos is a reliable spot for a wide selection of lunch boxes, snack containers and reusable water bottles to keep kids fuelled throughout the day. Waitrose has a wide range of lunchboxes and water bottles too – these can be ordered online and delivered to Waitrose on Church Street, and while you are there you can pick up some tasty and healthy snacks to fill them.
Back-to-School Haircuts
A fresh haircut can give children (and parents!) an extra boost of confidence for the first day back. Luckily, Wilmslow is full of talented hairdressers and barbers. Choose from Va Va Zoom, Terence Paul Hairdressing, Harper and Quinn, Barb and Bristle, David Anthony Hairdressing, Erox Barbers, Flanagans Barbers, Geoffrey Rose Hair and Beauty and Suave Barbers for styles to suit every taste and budget.
Glasses & Eye Tests
For some children, the new term might also mean a new pair of glasses or a check-up to make sure their eyesight is ready for a year of learning. Vision Express, Clare & Illingworth and James Doyle Opticians all provide professional eye tests and a wide range of stylish frames for kids and teens. Early detection of eyesight issues can make a huge difference in the classroom, so it’s worth booking in before the school rush.
Cycling to School, Bikes & Accessories
If your child will be cycling to school, make sure their bike is up to the journey. Pinarello and The Electric Bike Shop in Wilmslow offer everything from high-performance road bikes to practical e-bikes, plus helmets and accessories to ensure safety on the ride. A well-fitted bike can make the school run healthier, greener and more enjoyable.
Shop Local, Support Wilmslow
Wilmslow’s wealth array of businesses means you can get everything you need for the new school year without leaving town. By shopping locally, you’re not just ticking off your to-do list, you’re helping to keep the local economy strong, supporting jobs and ensuring Wilmslow stays a vibrant place to live, work and shop.
This September, let’s make ‘back to school’ a win-win: your family gets ready for a great year ahead and Wilmslow’s businesses get the support they deserve.