Back to School Guide
1 month ago
As summer wraps up, it's time to get ready for the new school year! While this can be an exciting time—especially for those starting school for the first time—it can also feel a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ve put together a checklist of the top 5 things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth start. From sorting out school uniforms to mastering that first bus ride, this guide will help make the back-to-school transition stress-free.
1. Uniform
You’ve probably got the basics covered but double-check that you have everything you need. Make sure your gear matches the school’s dress code and consider extras like a winter jumper or trousers. Don’t forget your P.E. kit and any other activity-specific items. As the weather cools down, make sure you have a warm coat, hat, scarf, and gloves.
Quick tip: Label your clothes to avoid mix-ups and double-check you’ve got everything when leaving the bus. Otherwise, your uniform might end up in lost property!
2. School Supplies
Ensure you have essentials like pens, pencils, and a spacious, supportive bag. Consider adding a USB stick, water bottle, planner, and lunch box to stay organised and prepared for the school year.
3. Term Dates and Contact Information
Check the school’s website for the calendar and mark important dates. Keep the school’s contact info handy in case of any issues or emergencies – Make sure to share these with Mum and Dad!
4. Establishing a Routine
After a summer of late nights, getting back into a routine can be tough. Gradually adjusting your bedtime and wake-up times before school starts will make the first week smoother and help you feel more prepared.
5. Getting to School
With everything else sorted, think about your journey to school. If you’re starting high school and taking the bus on your own, it might feel a bit daunting but don’t worry—travelling with Blackpool Transport is safe and straightforward.
The Extra Bits -
Start by figuring out which bus your child needs to take. Schools often provide transport details, or you can use our journey planner on our app to check routes. Once you’ve identified the right bus, review the timetables to choose a time that gets your child to school with some time to spare. Keep in mind that traffic can cause delays, so plan for a little extra time.
Once you’ve found the best bus option, decide on the most cost-effective ticket. If your child will be taking the bus regularly, a weekly or monthly saver ticket is a smart choice. These can be purchased via the Blackpool Transport app or directly on the bus (note: the 30-day ticket isn’t available for purchase on the bus).
If your child will only be using the bus occasionally, they can opt for a one-way single fare or one of our Day tickets. They just need to let the driver know their stop and pay the fare. The Day ticket is also available on the app.
App Information:
For first-time app users, or someone purchasing a Child or Young Persons ticket, the account will need to be verified, which requires a picture to be uploaded as well as proof of age. Once verified, you can easily purchase and use tickets through the app.
Getting On and Off the Bus:
Make sure your child arrives at the bus stop at least 5 minutes early. Signal the driver by sticking your arm out, then board the bus and either show your ticket or pay the fare. Sometimes you may need to stand, if so be as safe as possible and be aware that sometimes you’ll have to offer your seat to priority users like the elderly or those with disabilities.
For tram users, the process is similar. Arrive early, ensure you are visible to the tram driver, and follow the same safety and courtesy guidelines.
Practice Runs:
For first-time bus users - before the school year starts, consider doing a few practice runs with your child so they can get familiar with the bus or tram route. This will help ease any nerves and build confidence for the first day.
Starting school can be a bit nerve-wracking, especially for new students, but these tips should help make the transition smoother and less stressful.
If you require any additional help, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly team.