Preparing for a new school year is much easier when the shopping list is organised before you start buying.
Notebooks, pens, pencils, geometry tools, art materials and filing supplies are used throughout the year, but every pupil does not need every item on the same day.
Requirements vary by age, class and teacher, so use this Back to School 2026 checklist as a practical starting point for the 2026-2027 school year.
For ready-made options, browse the 2026-2027 School Supply Lists by Grade.
50 School Supply Essentials
Notebooks and Paper
- School notebook
- A4 notebook
- Spiral notebook
- Multi-subject spiral notebook
- Special-purpose notebook
Writing and Correction
- Blue ballpoint pen
- Black ballpoint pen
- Red ballpoint pen
- Erasable pen
- Four-colour pen
- HB pencil
- 2B pencil
- Mechanical pencil
- Eraser
- Pencil sharpener
- Correction tape
- Correction fluid
- Highlighter
Maths and Geometry
- 30cm ruler
- 45° set square
- 60° set square
- Protractor
- Compass
- Geometry set
- Scientific calculator
Crafts and Classroom Projects
- Glue stick
- Liquid glue
- Scissors
- Clear adhesive tape
- Stapler
- Hole punch
- Paper clips
- Rubber bands
Art Supplies
- Coloured pencils
- Fine-tip markers
- Broad-tip markers
- Watercolours
- Tempera paints
- Oil pastels
- School paintbrushes
- A4 drawing pad
- Coloured craft paper
- Velvet paper
- Glossy craft paper
- Modelling clay and plasticine
Organisation
- Book covers
- Folders
- Clear document sleeves
- Ring binders
- A4 copy paper
What Should You Buy First?
Start with the official list supplied by the school or teacher.
Buy everyday essentials first, including notebooks, pens, pencils, an eraser and a sharpener. Add geometry, art and specialist materials once you know which subjects require them.
This approach helps avoid duplicate purchases and keeps the school bag practical rather than overloaded.
Conclusion
Back to School shopping is easier when supplies are organised by purpose rather than bought all at once.
Start with writing and notebooks, add subject-specific equipment and then complete the list with art, crafts and filing materials.
Aristidou.gr brings together school supplies and 2026-2027 lists by grade, helping families prepare more efficiently for the new school year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important school supplies?
Notebooks, pens, pencils, an eraser, a sharpener and a ruler form a useful basic kit. Additional supplies depend on the pupil's year group and subjects.
When should I buy school supplies?
Buy basic everyday items before school begins, then purchase specialist materials after receiving the teacher's list.
What does a secondary school student usually need?
Separate notebooks or spiral books, pens, pencils, highlighters, geometry tools and filing supplies are common requirements.
How can I avoid buying unnecessary school supplies?
Check what can still be used from the previous year and wait for the official class list before purchasing specialist materials.