Back to School – Family finances

It's time to head back to school, with everything that involves: organisation, expenses, materials, etc. Do you know how to face the start of the school year while taking care of your family finances?

Raquel Azuaga

Raquel Azuaga, mother to two girls, discovers some tips to pass the start of the new school year with flying colours.

Organise yourself with Positive Balance

Summer is over and that means just one thing: it's back to school time! Here are some tips to help you pass the new school year with flying colours.

1. Shop at home

Before you start shopping, with your list to hand, make an inventory of what you have at home by reviewing the materials from the previous year. Throughout the school year, I put everything I find at home in a box and there are some real gems.

2. Plan your spending

It's a good idea to make a budget. This allows you to keep track of everything and plan before you start shopping. If you don't have an annual budget, make one now.

3. Research...

Whether you are entitled to a grant or aid from the Ministry of Education to buy books, uniforms or school supplies. Ask the school if they have a book or uniform bank or an exchange programme to get things free of charge.

4. Take advantage of offers

Look at the price per unit and take advantage of packs and promotions. Textbooks or reading books for each year can also be bought second-hand. Book exchange sites can also be a great way to save money.

5. Plan ahead: shop during the sales

It may be strange to try on a coat in June, but get ahead of the game and shop during seasonal sales, Black Friday and other times of the year when discounts are available. Getting a head start can help make September a little more bearable the following year!