As the 2025/2026 academic year gets closer, it’s time for teachers and schools across the UK to restock. Therefore, reorganise, and refresh their classrooms is top priority. Having the right teacher supplies not only supports smooth day-to-day teaching but also enhances learning outcomes and classroom management.
Whether you’re preparing a primary school classroom or gearing up for the demands of secondary school, this guide breaks down all the essential teacher supplies you need, from basic school stationery to creative art materials and planning tools. Plus, we’ll help you plan around school holidays so you’re always ahead of schedule.
Must-Have Teacher Supplies for Primary and Secondary School
No two classrooms are the same, and, without a doubt, there are core supplies every UK teacher needs. Of course, it is very important to create an engaging, well-managed environment for students to thrive.
Primary School Teacher Supplies
Primary school teachers need a mix of learning, creative, and behaviour tools. Here’s what to include on your 2025 checklist:
- Dry-wipe whiteboard and markers
- Colour-coded exercise books and folders
- Scissors, glue sticks, and rulers
- Reward stickers and stamps
- Storytime books and visual learning aids
- Educational games and phonics sets
- Craft trays for hands-on activities
- Clipboards and subject trays for pupil work
Secondary School Teacher Supplies
Secondary teachers often teach multiple classes and subjects, so organisation and versatility are key. Must-have items include:
- Teacher planner or digital scheduling tool
- Marking pens, correction tape, and sticky notes
- Lever-arch files, subject dividers, and hole punch
- USB drives and cloud storage access
- Class registers and behaviour logs
- Subject-specific resources (e.g., graph paper, scientific calculators)
- Durable school bags or laptop bags for commuting
In fact, both primary and secondary educators benefit from keeping a well-stocked teacher stationery kit. For example, this kit should include essentials like pens, highlighters, Post-it notes, Blu-Tack, and magnetic strips.
Creating a Well-Equipped Learning Space
A well-organised classroom can make all the difference when it comes to behaviour, engagement, and efficiency. From layout to labelling, every detail matters.
Classroom Setup Essentials
- Storage drawers or cubbies for pupil supplies
- Comfortable classroom chairs for back support and correct posture
- Display boards for educational posters and student work
- Desktop organiser for teacher stationery and tools
- Clear labelling on trays, shelves, and cupboards
- Visual timetables for young learners
- Inclusive materials for SEND support
- Comfortable reading area for quiet time or guided reading
Don’t forget to update classroom décor seasonally or termly. It keeps things fresh and exciting for students. Incorporating school art supplies like banners, paints, and displays also builds a creative classroom culture.
How UK School Holidays Impact Supply Planning
Planning around UK school holidays is a practical but often overlooked part of managing teacher supplies. Additionally, understanding the school year calendar helps ensure you’re never caught off guard by shortages or delayed deliveries.
Key UK Term Dates for 2025 (Approximate)
| Term | Typical Start | Typical End |
| Spring Term | Early January | Late March |
| Summer Term | Mid April | Mid July |
| Autumn Term | Early September | Mid December |
When to Restock
- End of Summer Term (July-August): Plan your back to school shopping for September.
- Mid-Spring Term (February): Reassess mid-year needs.
- Before Autumn Half-Term (October): Stock up before seasonal shortages.
Many retailers offer teacher discounts during these windows. Therefore, this is a great time to purchase teacher classroom supplies, from stationery to art and school craft supplies.
FAQs
1. What stationery does a teacher need?
Above all, a basic teacher stationery kit should include pens, highlighters, and whiteboard markers. In addition, add sticky notes, correction tools, and a reliable planner. But don’t forget to include notebooks and subject folders to stay fully organised throughout the term.
2. What are the most needed supplies in a school?
Every school needs exercise books, pens, glue sticks, scissors, rulers, whiteboards, educational posters, art materials, and organisational storage items for both pupils and teachers.
Refill Your Teacher Supplies
Get fully stocked for the 2025 academic year with quality teacher resources, stationery, and classroom must-haves at Staples. Practical, affordable, and delivered right to your school or home.
