Where can I find shops selling school shoes?
Where to Find School Shoes
You can find school shoes at various retailers across the UK. Based on the school requirements, you'll need to look for specific styles that meet the uniform policy.
Popular Retailers for School Shoes
- Clarks - Specializes in school shoes with fitting service
- Marks & Spencer - Offers durable school footwear
- Next - Has a good range of formal school shoes
- John Lewis - Provides quality school footwear
- Shoe Zone - Budget-friendly options
- Deichmann - Wide variety of formal school shoes
- Start-Rite - Specializes in children's school shoes
- Kickers - Makes formal shoes acceptable by many schools
- Supermarkets - Tesco, Asda, and Sainsbury's often have school footwear sections
What to Look For When Buying
When shopping for school shoes, ensure they meet these common requirements:
- Plain black or brown (depending on school policy)
- Formal business-like style (not trainer-style)
- Full leather or polishable leather substitute
- No sports logos or branding (some schools permit Kickers logos)
- No decorative elements, flashing lights, or bright colors
- Closed toes with minimal heel (typically under 1 inch)
- Suitable fastenings (Velcro may be easier for younger children)
Not Acceptable: Trainers, sports brands (Nike, Adidas, etc.), canvas shoes, Converse/Vans styles, boots (including Ugg), crocs, open-toed shoes, or shoes with high/wedge heels.
Best Time to Shop
The best times to shop for school shoes are:
- Late July/early August for best selection
- Mid-week mornings to avoid weekend crowds
- During back-to-school sales for better prices
If you're unsure about whether specific shoes meet your school's requirements, it's advisable to check with the school before purchasing.