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Back to School

What are some of the hints and tips people use to save money on things like books, stationery, uniforms and shoes when getting their kids ready to go back to school.

Tags: Back, School, to

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Permalink Reply by ff123 on January 27, 2009 at 9:20pm

Big W
Kmart
Coles

all do excellent specials on the basic stuff so you only need buy the odd item from the recommended rip off school supply shop.

Uniforms - network network network - you'll end up getting most of the uniform for free.
Try the local op shops etc..

This year is the first year that all school supplies are tax deductible so keep all receipts if your income is less than 150,000. Internet to your home is also tax deductible.

Shoes are always bought new.
Some schools offer scholarships etc.. a lot of schools have a mini slush fund or a helpful P&C so the lost and found from last year can be handed out to those in need. if you are in real difficulty approach the principal - there may be options.

Networking with the other parents is invaluable not just for bargains a general heads up on what is happening at your school helps enormously.

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Permalink Reply by Michelle on February 13, 2009 at 8:46pm

Back to School and Work!
Tip 1: Lunches

* Instead of buying the small packs of yoghurt, buy 1 litre and divide it up into small containers. Avg Saving – 50%

* Buy 1kg of sultanas and divide into small lunch portions. Avg Saving – 59%

* Purchase cordial instead of poppers, the sugar content is the same or in some cases it’s less. Avg Saving – 67%

* Make your own museli bars, cakes or cookies. (Can be done all together as a family activity on a Sunday afternoon!) Recipes available at www.secretbudget.net. Avg Saving – 90%

Tip 2: Supplies

Now is a great time to purchase for next year if you can. Try and get a hold of a book list from someone in the year above and purchase items that are on sale after the "back to school" promotions. This could include stationery, lunch boxes, school shoes, undies, socks etc...

Tip 3: Labels

Use electricians tape instead of the fancy and expensive personalised ones. Just write the name on the tape in pen (you could use gold or silver to pretty it up and even add a sticker)!