Back to School: Practical tips on how to start the new school year strong

The start of a new school year is the perfect opportunity for a fresh start - a chance to reset, refocus, and set yourself up for success. Whether you're moving up a year group or starting GCSEs or A-Levels, preparing properly can make all the difference.

Here are some practical (and actually useful) tips to help students and parents get ready for the year ahead with confidence and purpose.

1. Get organised early

Start with a clear-out:
Tidy your workspace, clear your bag, and go through last year’s books and notes. Keep what’s useful, recycle what’s not. A clutter-free start helps clear your head, too.

Stock up on the right supplies:
Basic doesn’t have to mean boring. Make sure you’ve got working pens, highlighters, folders, notebooks, and a planner or calendar. Add any subject-specific materials early, especially for new courses.

Set up a homework/study space at home:
Having a consistent, calm space to study can improve focus. Whether it’s a desk in your room or the kitchen table, make sure it’s ready for the new routine.

2. Build better habits from day one

Sort your sleep schedule:
Summer sleep-ins are great, but easing back into a regular routine before term starts can prevent a painful first week. Try to go to bed and wake up a little earlier each day in the final week of summer.

Plan your mornings:
A rushed start sets a stressed tone. Lay out clothes, prep lunches, and pack your bag the night before - future you will thank you.

Use a calendar:
Whether digital or paper, having a visible calendar to track homework, deadlines, extracurriculars, and revision timetables will help you stay ahead of the game.

3. Set Goals - but Make Them Workable

Think SMART:
Set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals. For example: “Revise science notes for 20 minutes three times a week” beats “Do better in science.”

Balance ambition with reality:
A new school year often brings renewed motivation, but don’t overwhelm yourself. Focus on a few key habits or changes at a time, then build from there.

Reflect on last year:
What worked well for you? What didn’t? Use the past to guide your improvements - not to punish yourself.

4. Brush up before you’re back

Revisit tricky topics from last year:
You don’t need to study like it’s exam season - just review key topics or vocab that you struggled with. A quick refresher can make new lessons much easier to follow.

Start reading around your subjects:
For students starting GCSEs or A-Levels, looking at your new syllabus or exam board website and familiarising yourself with topics ahead of time can build confidence.

5. Look after your wellbeing

Keep a healthy routine:
Eat well, get outside, and make time to wind down. It’s easier to do well in school when you feel good physically and mentally.

Talk about how you're feeling:
If you’re nervous about the new school year, that’s normal - especially if you're transitioning into a new key stage or starting a new school. Talk to a parent, teacher or friend about your worries.

Plan fun things too:
It’s not all about work. Build in downtime, hobbies and social time. Balance is key for a successful school year.

6. Stay connected

Reach out early if you’re struggling:
Don’t wait until the first test or homework panic. If something isn’t clicking, ask for help - from teachers, classmates, or tutors.

Build your support network:
Whether it’s joining a club, chatting to your form group, or connecting with a new teacher, building relationships makes school feel more enjoyable and less overwhelming.

A new school year is more than just a date on the calendar - it’s a fresh chapter. Whether you’re aiming higher academically, building confidence, or just trying to get your routine on track, small, steady actions from the start can lead to big results.

Need some extra support this year?
At EduBridge, we help students across the UK boost confidence, build skills, and get the most out of every school year. Whether it’s tailored tutoring, subject support, or study strategies, we’re here to help. Reach out today to find out more.