Back to school budgeting

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Pelena Cosme


Digital Content Producer


Here are our top back to school tips to help you and the families in your church regain control of your money after a fun-filled summer holiday. 

The back-to-school rush always feels bittersweet. I’ve spent more money than I planned during the summer, but as I look back at the photos on my phone, I can’t help but smile. The children had a great time, and we’ll miss the freedom of doing things on our own schedule. However, returning to a regular routine is important, and it’s good for the kids to be back in school with their friends, teachers, and new year group.

What next?

Now, it’s time to face the reality of how far I’ve strayed from my budget and find ways to get back on track as the school year begins.

Here are four back to school tips for parents. These are practical steps you can take as the kids go back to school to help you stay on track with your money goals:

1. Review your summer budget and plan your autumn budget

Look at where you spent the most money and why. Understanding your spending habits helps you anticipate where you’re most likely to go over budget, allowing you to plan accordingly. To prevent overspending, consider using cash for shopping and outings to limit yourself to a set amount. Many places are now cashless so perhaps using a card where you can transfer a set amount of money to a debit card to avoid going over could be helpful.

For further support leading up to the end of the year, consider Money Coaching. These sessions are designed to help bolster your budgeting skills so you can better navigate your finances.

Find out more

2. Last minute back to school shopping

September is a great time to find bargains on school essentials like uniforms, stationery, shoes, and coats. Some stores and supermarkets offer significant discounts on unsold stock. Do some research to find the best deals in your local stores for their back to school sale. Also try markets both in person and online that could offer a range of cost effective school items at a bargain.

3. Plan your food budget

Food costs usually take up most of the budget along with rent and utilities — especially with growing children. This September, consider shopping in the reduced-price aisles or during times when supermarkets offer last-minute deals. Stocking up on tinned and non-perishable goods can also help with meal planning. There are particular apps and websites that provide places to get heavily discounted foods if you have flexibility to collect food and if you are concerned about food waste.

Here at CAP we know just how costly food is. Here is a helpful guide to how to cook delicious and healthy recipes on a budget.

4. Looking ahead to half term and Christmas holidays

With October half term only several weeks away the children will need to be fed and entertained. Planning now can help you find free or low-cost events, saving you money. As a starting point, use some of the ideas explored on this page to give you peace of mind and practical support. And yes, it’s time to start thinking about Christmas! The cost of gifts is increasing yearly so having that in mind now could be helpful in planning what presents to buy your loved ones and how much to spend.

Top tip

Could you start setting aside money to buy gifts or make gifts early to ease the financial pressure of Christmas? If you can’t buy any gifts yet, then researching and budgeting means you can stay on track as the festive season approaches.

Supporting you

Summer 2024 is over, and kids across the country are now back at school. You’re doing an incredible job as a parent or carer navigating these challenging times, with the cost of essentials rising. Here is our free online budget sheet to help you plan your new autumn budget.

Find out if money coaching is happening near you by going to capuk.org/get-help/money-coaching.