“Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.”

teafor2

I've no idea what DS can still fit into because he's not been dressed for 4 months Probably not much considering how he's grown. I bought a new blazer for him in September which was on the large size so hoping that's one expense I don't have to go to. Same with the rugby shirt. I bet there's very few children go to school in properly fitting uniform. It's probably either too big so they get value out of it, or too small but it's near the end of year so they'll have to make do lol. I can hold my hand up to both ways of thinking. 

DS has a terrible habit of treading down the back heel of his shoes and the rate his feet grow I don't go to too much expense, so it's generally a pair from SZone.  We get his trainers from SportsD and thankfully he's not into any brands or styles so is quite happy with a pair around the £40 mark. But of course we need to double that - a pair that can get dirty outdoors and a clean indoor pair! 

Will you need to buy uniform for DD2 or do you think she will still be shielding/well enough to go back to school. I know you were thinking of home schooling her at one point. Have the past few weeks made you realise that could definitely be an option or not? xx

please-let-me-be-lucky

Re the PE kit bag, I read that you need something specific style/colour wise so this may not help, but I thought I’d mention it just incase. Both my DS prefer to use drawstring type bags from JD sports. The type you pay 5 or 10p for when you buy something from the shop. You can actually just go up to the counter and buy a bag Xx

WannabeFree

Youngest won't be returning full time tea at all this year. The plan is still unknown to anyone. No one knows what to do and no one agrees with each other. 

Thank you Lucky thats a really good idea. 

teafor2

In that case then, as her Mum, I'd do what you think is best for her and let them argue it out between themselves. xx

beanielou

I wopuld not even buy the football boots.
What does the school do if the young person has not got all the required sports kit?
Here the schools are not going back in uniform as such due to COVID and the recognition that the clothes will have to be washed every day.
I think your DS's school to be have a lot to answer for.

WannabeFree

I assume they'd get detention and if it continued isolation. I wouldn't ever not send him with whats requested.

Up there seem to be dealing with it all a lot better Beanie. Ours dont even require extra washing of uniforms etc from September. No social distancing and a bubble of over 400 children for DS. 

WannabeFree

And I dont think its just DSs school. Teas DS at high-school needs similar. Other than the logo on the trousers. I think its just all part of high school unfortunately.  I remember it being just as bad when I was there. Other than a blazer. 

beanielou

I am just glad it wasent that bad when DS was at school & that was only 10 years ago.
I always remember having words with the PE teacher as DS did not have something or anothery & I could not afford it & she quite obviously did not believe me!!
Now I only have massive vet bills to worry about.

teafor2

For now, we've been told when DS returns his bubble will be his year group - approximately 250 other pupils. If one shows signs of the virus they've all got to isolate for 2 weeks. It'll only take a handful of crafty pupils to decide they have symptoms and he won't be in again for months! 

I think you're right about the astronomical cost of uniform being part and parcel of high schools, not that it makes it right, but apart from a couple of  extra logo items and PE kit yours doesn't seem too different to most out there. Ours get marks against them for incorrect uniform which work up to detention and then inclusion which just means rather than excluding them they have to go in but sit in a room with other pupils who've done something they shouldn't have done.

Haircuts are serious business though. Nothing less than a number 2 and the teachers do 'pinch tests' although the social distancing will make that impossible now  Personally, I find the fact they go around 'pulling' lads hair comical but also a bit weird considering the way things are these days.

Have you and DS signed a 'school contract' yet WB? That's something else we have to do. xx

WannabeFree

I havent sent it back yet Tea. But we do have one to sign. 
Yes hair cuts is on the rules list too and the no hair colour other than natural. No jewellery. Phones. Make up etc. Expectations on behaviour in and out of school/homework. Theres a lot to remember and read. I have to admit I feel overwhelmed with the amount I need to remember and sort. 
Between his uniform and things he needs. The girls uniforms. Shoes. Trainers. Then the worrh if i find enough to buy one set for them. How will I wash and get it dry before the next morning with no dryer. Especially as it gets further into autumn and winter. 

How will I get us all out the house and at school on time.

As you can probably tell by the time I'm posting. Theres a lot on mind.