Back To School
Myer has all your back-to-school essentials sorted! Whether your kids are returning to the classroom or learning from home, we’ve listed all the back-to-school supplies you need to prepare children and teens for a successful school year in 2025.
From school shoes and activewear to accessories and more, get ready to tick off everything on your child’s back-to-school shopping list.
Shop The Edit
Giving you the latest products from leading brands, we've made it simple to stock up on back-to-school essentials. Shop Myer’s back-to-school edit for quality kids’ school shoes, activewear, lunchboxes, drink bottles and stationery.
Everything in our collection delivers on quality and value – keeping your kids feeling comfortable and looking sharp throughout the school year. Browse our selection to get a head start before term one begins.
School Shoes
The start of a new school year brings a sense of excitement and perhaps a few nerves. This year, help them put their best foot forward with a stylish pair of school shoes and runners from a brand you can trust.
Myer has a large range of back-to-school shoes featuring resilient outsoles and soft insoles to provide cushioned comfort for growing feet. A breathable lining will keep their feet cool on hot days, while removable insoles make it easy to add orthotics.
Activewear
Featuring modern designs that make movement easy, Myer’s range of back-to-school activewear will help your children unlock new sporting achievements. Watch with pride as your kids develop confidence both on and off the playing field.
Our range of sportswear brands includes Nike, Adidas, Champion, Puma and more. Moisture-wicking fabric technology helps to keep young sportspeople comfortable, while soft cotton and elastane blends offer flexibility for yoga, gymnastics and dance.
Accessories
Combining quality materials with casual style, our range of back-to-school accessories includes lunchboxes and drink bottles, watches, stationery and more from some of Australia’s leading brands.
Made from durable materials, our back-to-school backpacks are built to stand up to the demands of a busy school year. Internal compartments keep everything organised, while reinforced padded back panels and shoulder straps provide strength and support.
Underwear & Socks
If you’re looking for great-value back-to-school packs of socks, undies and t-shirts, our range of underwear and socks for kids has everything you need. The fun colours and prints are certain to impress your kids, providing that little bit of extra motivation to get dressed for school.
How To Find The Right Shoe Size At Home
It’s easy to measure your child’s shoe size at home. To start, you’ll need an A4 sheet of paper, a ruler and a pen. Then, simply follow the steps below:
Size conversion Chart
Our size conversion chart shows you which shoe size is most suitable for your child, based on the length of their feet.
Simply find your child’s foot measurement in the first column and then follow that row to see their size (in Australian, European and American shoe sizes).
Please note: if in doubt, it’s usually best to size up to allow room for growth.
Back to School Advice For Parents
Getting ready for the new school year is easier with a little planning and organisation. Here are our top tips for back-to-school success:
Start early: Avoid last-minute rushes by shopping a few weeks ahead while most sizes and styles are still in stock.
Check sizing carefully: Because kids grow fast, you should aim to buy shoes and clothing that allow room for growth.
Label everything: Use durable labels or markers on lunch boxes and clothing.
Create a routine: Reintroduce bedtime and morning schedules before school starts.
Prepare backups: Keep spare socks, stationery and drink bottles on hand.
Involve kids: Let them help choose their backpack or shoes to build excitement and independence.
Back to School Advice For Kids
Going back to school is exciting because you can see your friends again and learn new things. To prepare for the year ahead, here are some things you can do:
Try on your gear: Make sure your shoes, clothes and backpack fit comfortably before the first day.
Organise your bag: Pack your stationery, lunch box and water bottle the night before.
Practice independence: Learn to tie your shoes, pack your lunch and keep track of your belongings.
Stay positive: Focus on the fun parts of school and new opportunities.
Ask for help: Teachers and parents are always there if you need support.
Back to School FAQs
When do schools go back by state in 2026?
Below, we’ve listed the 2026 first-day school dates for public schools. If your child attends a Catholic or private school, please check with the school as dates can vary.
New South Wales:
(Eastern Division): Monday 2 February 2026
(Western Division): Monday 9 February 2026
Victoria: Wednesday 28 January 2026
Queensland: Tuesday 27 January 2026
Western Australia: Monday 2 February 2026
South Australia: Tuesday 27 January 2026
Tasmania: Thursday 5 February 2026
Northern Territory: Wednesday 28 January 2026
Australian Capital Territory:
New students: Friday 30 January 2026
Returning students: Monday 2 February 2026
Do start dates differ between public and private schools?
Yes, start dates often differ between public and private schools. Public school calendars are set by each state or territory’s education department, so dates are standardised across government schools. Private and independent schools, however, have greater flexibility and may adjust their schedules to suit their own needs.
While most schools return around the same time, it’s always best to check directly with your child’s school for specific start and finish dates.
When should I start shopping for back-to-school items?
It’s best to start shopping for back-to-school essentials about four weeks before term begins. This gives you plenty of time to find the right sizes and avoid the last-minute rush.
Popular items like school shoes, backpacks and lunch boxes tend to sell out early, so shopping ahead ensures better selection. Early preparation also lets you spread out costs and involve your kids in choosing their gear.
What items are essential for back-to-school?
Every child’s needs are a little different, but a few essentials help start the school year smoothly. Must-haves include:
- School shoes and sneakers
- Backpack with good support and compartments
- Stationery such as pens, pencils, notebooks and folders
- Lunch box and water bottle
- Activewear
- Socks and underwear
- Swimmers and towel (if swimming is part of the school program)
It’s also helpful to keep a few spares at home such as socks, notebooks or pens – to save time during busy mornings.
Are school shoes durable enough for everyday wear?
Yes, quality school shoes can be durable enough for daily wear. Because school shoes are usually built with quality materials such as leather uppers and sturdy soles, they tend to stand up to wear and tear.
How often should I buy a new school uniform?
Most families find they need to replace or update school uniforms once a year, usually before the new school term begins. However, it depends on your child’s growth rate and how much wear the items get.
Younger children may need new pieces more often as they outgrow sizes quickly, while older students might only need replacements for worn or stained items. To extend the life of uniforms, wash them according to care labels and repair small tears early.
What’s the best way to care for school shoes and uniforms?
Proper care helps school shoes and uniforms last longer. Follow these simple tips:
School shoes: Clean regularly with a damp cloth to remove dirt, then polish or condition leather to keep it supple. Let shoes air-dry naturally.
Uniforms: Wash according to care labels. Turn items inside out to protect colours and prints.
Storage: Hang uniforms neatly and keep shoes in a dry, ventilated space.
Rotation: If possible, alternate between two pairs of shoes or uniforms to reduce daily wear and extend their lifespan.
Does Myer stock school uniforms for specific schools?
No, Myer doesn’t stock uniforms tailored to specific schools. However, we do carry a wide selection of school-appropriate shoes and accessories. These styles meet many school dress-code requirements and offer comfort for active school days.
Can I return or exchange school shoes or accessories if they don’t fit?
Yes, Myer will offer a refund or exchange on most items* within 30 days of purchase.
*Exclusions apply. To see if your item is eligible, visit our Returns Policy.