Whether you’re a seasoned school-uniform pro or it’s your first time navigating the uniform maze, we know this time of year can feel a bit overwhelming. As a family-run business that supports over 200 schools across London, Kent and Essex, we’ve picked up a few useful tips over the years – and we thought it might help to share them here.
So, kettle on. Here’s everything you need to know to get school uniform sorted, minus the last-minute panic.
1. Shop early – we really do mean it
We know – not everyone wants to think about polo shirts and PE kits in July. But shopping early genuinely makes a difference.
Orders placed before 5th August are guaranteed for delivery before the start of term. After that, we’ll still work hard to get everything out quickly, but it’s our busiest period and delays can happen.
2. Embroidery doesn’t mean made-to-order – but it still takes time
We hold a large amount of pre-decorated school uniform in stock, especially during the summer months. But all those items still need processing – picking, checking, packing – and occasionally topped up with embroidery at our workshop.
At peak times (especially in August), even pre-stocked embroidered garments take longer to move through the system, so please allow extra time.
3. Some items are special orders – and they take longer
Some schools have unique PE kit items, custom-fit garments or branded accessories that are ordered specially. We do our best to stock what we can in advance, but once these sell out, restocking can take longer, especially if the supplier is overseas or only works to order.
We’ll always let you know where possible – and promise we’re chasing suppliers just as much as you might want to!
4. Click & Collect = less stress
Choose to collect your order from:
- Our Walthamstow site
- Hartley DIY in Kent
- O’Connells Variety Store on Angel Lane, Dunmow
Please wait for the “Ready for Collection” email before visiting – we only pack orders when all items are available.
5. There’s no parking in the yard during August and September
Our premises get very busy during the summer rush, and for everyone’s safety, we do not permit parking in the yard from 1st August to 30th September. Please plan your journey accordingly and help respect our neighbouring businesses.
6. Returns & exchanges are extended – no need to panic buy
We’ve extended our returns period on purchases made between 14th July and 30th September. So if you’re unsure about sizing, you can shop early and still return or exchange if needed.
Just make sure items are unworn, unwashed and still have their tags. (Unfortunately, we can’t accept returns on personalised items like monogramming or leavers’ hoodies.)
7. Stock moves fast – especially after 5th August
We restock as quickly as we can, and we’re in daily contact with our suppliers. But once we’re into August, availability can change quickly – particularly for high-demand sizes and styles.
If you’re visiting in person and something’s not available, please ask – we may have a delivery due, or we can advise on the next best option. We can always place an order for you in the shop so the stock will be allocated to you once it is in.
8. Our summer staff are brilliant – and learning on the job
During Back to School season, we bring in extra team members to help us serve you more efficiently. They’re friendly, capable and doing their best – but like all new starters, they’re still getting to grips with the SpeedStitch way of doing things.
We’d be really grateful if you could treat them with the same patience and kindness you’d want someone to show your own teen on their first job. (You might even spot a few of our own kids helping out too!)
Final thought…
Back to School is a big moment for families – and it’s a big moment for us too. We care about getting it right, and we know how much trust it takes to hand your schoolwear needs over to someone else.
Thank you for supporting our small, independent, slightly-chaotic-at-times but always hard-working family business. We can’t wait to see you soon.
And if in doubt? Give us a ring or drop us an email. It’s always easier to help before the queue starts.
– The SpeedStitch Team