By Fatskills Exam Guides Team — a small group of teachers, exam mentors, and ex-students who write about study habits, stress, admissions, and what actually helps in real student life.
Whether your child is heading off for an apprenticeship, university, or independent living, having a well-organized checklist ensures they don’t forget the essentials! ✅
Passport / ID Driving licence University/apprenticeship contract Bank details & debit card Insurance documents (health, home, travel) NHS number & GP registration details National Insurance number Student discount cards (e.g., TOTUM, 16-25 Railcard) Copies of accommodation details (rental agreement, landlord contact)
Tip: Store digital copies of important documents on their phone/cloud storage!
Duvet & covers Pillows & pillowcases Bedsheets & mattress protector Coat hangers Alarm clock Small bin Desk lamp Photos & decorations (fairy lights, posters) Earplugs & eye mask Laundry bag & drying rack
Tip: Choose lightweight bedding for easy washing & transport!
Bath towels & hand towels Shower gel & shampoo Toothbrush & toothpaste Razor & shaving foam Deodorant & perfume/body spray Nail clippers & tweezers Sanitary products (pads/tampons/menstrual cup) Hairbrush/comb & hairdryer Toilet roll First aid kit (plasters, antiseptic cream, painkillers)
Tip: If in shared accommodation, bring a shower caddy to carry toiletries easily!
Plates, bowls & mugs Cutlery (knives, forks, spoons) Chopping board Frying pan & saucepan Cooking utensils (spatula, tongs, wooden spoon) Baking tray Can opener & bottle opener Food storage containers (Tupperware) Tin foil & cling film Tea towels Dishwashing sponge & liquid Basic food supplies (rice, pasta, spices, cooking oil, tea/coffee)
Tip: Buy distinctive kitchenware (bright colours/patterns) to avoid mix-ups in shared kitchens!
Laptop & charger Mobile phone & charger Headphones Extension leads & plug adaptors USB flash drive / external hard drive Printer & ink (if required) Power bank Desk fan (for warm months)
Tip: Label chargers & cables to avoid mix-ups with housemates!
Notebooks & folders Pens, pencils & highlighters Post-it notes & sticky labels Stapler & hole punch Calculator (if needed) Whiteboard / planner Textbooks & reading materials
Tip: Some books can be expensive—check second-hand stores or online marketplaces before buying new!
Everyday casual wear Smart outfit (for interviews, events) Gym wear Waterproof coat & umbrella Comfortable shoes & trainers Sleepwear & slippers Socks & underwear Seasonal wear (scarves, gloves, hat for winter) Backpack/tote bag
Tip: Pack only essentials! Seasonal clothing can be swapped on visits home.
Laundry detergent & fabric softener Washing-up liquid & sponge Cleaning wipes & spray Bin bags Air freshener Toilet brush & bleach Small vacuum cleaner or dustpan & brush
Tip: Set up a cleaning rota in shared accommodation to keep things tidy!
Budgeting app (Monzo, Revolut, etc.) Emergency cash Student bank account details Part-time job applications (if needed)
Tip: Encourage saving by setting up a direct debit for rent & bills!
✔ How to boil pasta/rice properly ✔ How to fry or bake chicken/fish ✔ How to make quick, healthy meals ✔ How to store food safely & avoid waste
Tip: A slow cooker is a lifesaver for quick, cheap meals!
Bus/train pass (if commuting) Bike lock (if cycling) Parking permit (if bringing a car)
Tip: Download local transport apps to navigate easily!
Playing cards/board games Sports equipment (yoga mat, football, skipping rope) Camera (if into photography) Fancy dress outfit (for themed events)
Tip: Pack a few comfort items from home to help with homesickness!
✔ Check accommodation details – Key collection & move-in date. ✔ Double-check essential documents – ID, bank, and health details. ✔ Test travel routes – Work out how to get to work/university. ✔ Plan first grocery shop – Buy basics like milk, bread, cereal.
Exciting times ahead! With this checklist, your child will be well-prepared for their new adventure—whether it's uni, an apprenticeship, or independent living!
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