Dotting the i's and crossing the t's

It feels like the kids have just finished up for their summer holidays but it’s just a few weeks away until they are back in their new uniform and heading through the school gates again for another academic year.

It can be both an exciting and nervous time for children especially if it’s their first day of school, whether it’s primary or secondary. But before all of that happens, you need to do your own homework and find out what’s what.

Now’s the time to make a list of everything your child needs from books to stationary to sports gear.

Grab a pen and paper and make a list of all the child’s subjects and what they will need for each of them or if you’re happier to use an excel spread sheet on a laptop top or tablet, type away into it.

Getting them ready for school all adds up though and help is at hand for those who need it.

Have a look on citizensinformation.ie or visit your local Citizen’s Information office for information on Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance.

As for tips on saving money on books, Schooldays.ie has information on this and many other topics as you start dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s.

How about sharing and passing on books between siblings and friends, or selling on your last year’s books? Schooldays.ie say that many bookshops will buy second-hand school books once they are in good condition. Bring in the books sooner rather than later or the books shops will not have the time to sell them on.

Schooldays.ie say to also check with the principal to see if you are entitled to apply for the School Book Grants Scheme.

With education and going back to school on our minds, the Cork Independent is is running an education series over the next few weeks.

This week we look at some Cork students who are putting their talents to good use at home and abroad, some educational initiatives, why there should be a back to school bonus and more.