Preparing for the beginning of a brand-new academic year garners a healthy mix of nerves and excitement amongst both parents and kids.
After a few months off, it’s novel to see the kiddos excited by the prospect of choosing a brand-new pencil case as they enter into the strangely cardboard-scented local stationery shop. Likewise, as much as parents enjoy the unbeatable quality time which summer holidays afford – it’s quite the relief to have the house back to yourself for the majority of the day, especially when working from home.
In order to truly enjoy the sweet relief of back-to-school shenanigans come September, it’s essential that you adequately prepare for the mammoth task at hand. That means triple-checking everything – from ensuring your school’s uniform hasn’t suddenly changed, to understanding what’s ‘hip’ amongst you child’s year group.
One of the most important means of preparing for a new school year, however, is purchasing a brand-new pair of kicks for those ever-growing feet. As much as no child particularly enjoys the squirmy feeling of a shoe shop tape measure, the excitement of owning the freshest black leather kicks in school usually outweighs the discomfort.
From classic Clarks to edgy Kickers, keep scrolling for a round-up of the best school shoes to buy before September rolls around.
Shop now.
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Secondary school shoes
Nike Air Force 1 LE Older Kids’ Shoe
If your school allows them, there’s nothing quite as cool as a pair of black leather Air Force 1s. The sturdy, perennially stylish design will be the envy of kiddos and adults alike. What makes the Air Force 1s a great school shoe is the fact that you can throw them in the washing machine on a delicate cycle after a particularly muddy day or simply wipe clean as needed.
Buy now £69.95, Nike
Adidas Advantage Court Lifestyle Hook-And-Loop Shoes
Another stylish big brand option, these unisex kicks from Adidas are void of any pesky laces thanks to the stylish hook-and-loop straps. These trainers are also made from a series of recycled materials, so your little rascal can look fresh while feeling good about the environment.
Buy now £30.00, Adidas
Clarks Torhill Kid Black
You might be surprised to find out that this classic Desert Trek-inspired Clarks style is in vogue for both kids and adults. The difference between the Desert Trek and the newer Torhill, however, is that this design includes a tough and sturdy ribbed outsole to carry your kids through the school day into their after-school activities.
Buy now £56.00, Clarks
Loxham Pace Youth Black Leather
Another no-nonsense style from the experts over at Clarks, the Loxham Pace are a fresh, functional take on the classic brogue that won’t give your kiddo break-in blisters thanks to the extra comfortable eco foam footbed cushions.
Buy now £52.00, Clarks
Loxham Brogue Youth Black Patent
A slightly more feminine version of the Loxham Pace design, we’re big fans of the shiny patent leather finish.
Buy now £52.00, Clarks
Kids' Leather Chunky School Loafer
These comfortable slip-on loafers feature a stylish chunky heel, scuff-resistant leather and soft underfoot padding for all-day comfort
Buy now £38.00, M&S
Kickers Youth Women Kick Hi Vegan Patent Leather Black
Even decades on, you simply can’t go wrong with a pair of comfortable hi-top kickers in the brand’s classic lace-up style.
Buy now £70.00, Kickers
Converse black all star hi leather Youth Trainers
The smart leather finish on these classic chucks makes them perfectly suitable for school, not least for their unbeatable durability.
Buy now £50.00, Schuh
Dr Martens black 8065 Girls Junior Shoes
A stylish pair of kicks for all ages, these double buckle Mary Janes are complete with the brand’s signature chunky gum sole.
Buy now £69.00, Schuh
Primary school shoes
Leather T-bar Flats
As comfortable as they are adorable, these classic Mary Janes from Boden will make your little one’s very first steps into a brand new school an absolute breeze.
Buy now £31.20, Boden
Black Leather Boy Classic School Shoes
Created by artisans from the finest Nappa leather, these luxurious stompers are fit for a prince or princess.
Buy now £62.00, La Coqueta
Skip Black riptape canvas school plimsolls
Incredibly easy to pop on and off, these canvas plimsolls will keep your child comfortable all day long.
Buy now £20.00, Start Rite
Kickers toddler boys school shoe
Slightly sturdier than a classic plimsoll yet just as comfortable, these Kickers are a perfect accompaniment to an active toddler that’ll keep up with them throughout the school day and beyond.
Buy now £39.99, Kickers
Clarks Kids' Hopper Go Plimsolls
These value for money, ultra-flexible and oh-so comfortable plimsolls from Clarks will have your child confidently stepping into the classroom each and every day.
Buy now £10.00, John Lewis
