Back to school in Surrey

Support for families as the new term begins

The start of a new school year can be an exciting time. It can also bring challenges as children and young people settle back into routines, make new friends and adjust to new classes.

Whether your child is starting school for the first time, moving up a year group or returning after the summer holidays, there is plenty of support available across Surrey. Families can access help throughout the term.

Ready, set, learn with Surrey Libraries

Surrey Libraries offer free membership for all ages. They provide a welcoming space for children and young people to learn, read and explore.

Libraries support learning and help build confidence throughout the school year. Younger children can enjoy activities and events like Storytime and Rhymetime sessions. Older students can use study spaces and digital resources.

Some libraries also offer Super Access. This allows members to use the library outside normal opening hours, including evenings and weekends.

Supporting wellbeing

It's normal for children and young people to experience worries when a new term begins. Changes in routine, new teachers and increased expectations can all take time to adjust to.

There are lots of helpful resources and practical strategies on the Mindworks and Healthy Surrey websites.

Returning to school after a break can be a big change for children and young people with additional needs and/or disabilities (AND). The Local Offer parents and carers webpage offers information, advice, and practical guidance to help you support your child in education.

As young people head back to school, Surrey Youth Voice podcasts share real stories, practical tips and advice. They focus on wellbeing, confidence and connection. Listen on our YouTube channel. You can also find out more about Surrey Youth Voice groups and events and follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

Help with school costs

The new school year can be expensive for families, but support is available.

The Family Information Service provides information on help with the cost of school uniforms, as well as eligibility for Free School Meals. Support also includes provision from Stripey Stork, which has been further enhanced through funding from the Crisis and Resilience Fund.

Get creative with Surrey Arts

Taking part in music and creative activities can help children build confidence, make new friends, and develop new skills.
Surrey Arts offers a range of opportunities for young people, including Music Labs. These are relaxed, hands on sessions where young people can make music together.

• Beats Lab: making beats, using samples, recording and music production
• Live Labs: playing in a band and performing live
• Guitar Lab: guitar skills, from first chords to playing in a group

Children and young people do not need any experience to join. Beginners and more experienced musicians are all welcome.

Surrey Arts also offers music lessons, workshops, groups and chances to perform across the county.

Staying healthy this school year

Good health plays an important role in helping children thrive at school.

Parents and carers are encouraged to check that their children are up to date with routine vaccinations. They can also access health advice and resources through Surrey's Children and Families Health services.

A little time for you

With children back at school and routines settling into place, many parents and carers find it is also a good time to focus on their own goals and interests.

Surrey Adult Learning's autumn term starts from Monday 7 September. It offers hundreds of courses and workshops online and in person at seven centres across Surrey. You might want to improve your digital skills, gain a qualification, learn a language, explore a creative hobby or build confidence before returning to work. There are options to suit all interests and abilities.

Surrey County Council's free Skills, Training and Employment Portal (STEP) makes it easier for adults in Surrey to find local job opportunities, training courses, careers advice and employment support. Everything is available in one place.