Back to school accessories at lowest prices, including stationery, books and gadgets

We’ve found some essentials to stock up on before September rolls around, with kids returning to school in just over a month.

Best back to school accessories from gadgets to stationery (Image: Mirror )

September will be here before we know it, despite the possibility that the school holidays have just begun. Nothing worse than a last-minute search for accessories and uniforms for school.

To save you from any panic buying this year, we’ve compiled a list of our top back-to-school essentials that your little ones will need. From stationery must-haves and stylish jackets to shield them from the often unpredictable British weather, to educational gadgets and playful lunch bags.

Every child starts at just £5, and we have something for everyone.

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National Trust organizes its Summer of Play activities for children’s school holidays.

Vtech Swipe and Learn Laptop, £29.99

Vtech Swipe and Learn Laptop
Vtech Swipe and Learn Laptop(Image: Vtech )

Pre-school-aged children should use this adorable and kid-friendly laptop to learn, play, and explore. Through playful interactions and an ABC keyboard, number buttons, and engaging app-style activities, it teaches phonics, counting, and early computer skills.

£5 Taggeez Customisable Pencil Case

Taggeez Customisable Pencil Case
Taggeez Customisable Pencil Case(Image: Taggeez)

Allow your child to inject some personality into their school stationery with this fun pencil case, which can be customized with different pins. Available for only £5 from Tesco, there’s both pink and blue options to shop.

Tikkers Kids Orange Series 13 Smart Watch, retailing for $29.99

Tikkers Kids Orange Series 13 Smart Watch
Tikkers Kids Orange Series 13 Smart Watch(Image: Tikkers )

The Tikkers Series 13 is the best smart accessory for young children and teenagers who are active. It’s also a great way to win your kids over if they’ve been asking you to buy adult electronics. This is a great option for older children because it includes features like call and message alerts, fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, GPS, and more.

Pink Paddington Bag by Cath Kidston, £29

Cath Kidston Pink Paddington Bag
Cath Kidston Pink Paddington Bag(Image: Cath Kidston )

£50 Regatta Blue Puffa Jacket

Regatta Blue Puffa Jacket
Regatta Blue Puffa Jacket(Image: Regatta)

A sturdy, waterproof jacket is a must-have for the UK’s unpredictable and frequently rainy climate. This vibrant blue puffa from Regatta will last a lifetime thanks to its high quality.

6 Swing Cool Pastel Highlighters, set of 6, £9.95

Stabilo Pack of 6 Swing Cool Pastel Highlighters
Stabilo Pack of 6 Swing Cool Pastel Highlighters(Image: Stabilo )

This pastel highlighter set is ideal for a busy student or student who enjoys dedicating time to their presentations at school. A handy and adaptable wedge tip is included with these Stabilo ones for both broad and fine lines.

Next Blue Playstation Lunch Box, £14

Next Blue Playstation Lunch Box
Next Blue Playstation Lunch Box(Image: Next)

If you’ve got a gaming lover, this fun and playful PlayStation backpack is the perfect back-to-school buy. Featuring a zip fastening and built-in bottle holder, this insulated bag keeps lunch cool and protected all day long. Not to mention, it pairs perfectly with the matching water bottle.

Apple Puzzle, £19.99, Smart Toys and Games

Smart Toys and Games Apple Puzzle
Smart Toys and Games Apple Puzzle(Image: Smart Toys and Games )

This entertaining daily puzzle helps keep your kids’ minds engaged while also improving their ability to solve problems. To complete this brain-teasing 3D puzzle, stack the apple slices and precisely place the worms.

£8.99 New Look Magnetic Dry Erase Board

New Look Magnetic Dry Erase Board
New Look Magnetic Dry Erase Board(Image: New Look)

This practical board provides students with a stylish place to keep track of their weekly schedule, homework, and chores for lockers, desks, or the refrigerator at home. Plans can be easily changed week by week thanks to its dry-erase surface.

The Book of Big Feelings by Mrs. Wordsmith is priced at $20.

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Mrs Wordsmith The Book of Big Feelings
Mrs Wordsmith The Book of Big Feelings(Image: Mrs Wordsmith)

Meghan Markle’s unusual request issued to fans as she approaches landmark day

Meghan Markle will be turning 44 in just a few hours, but in the past, she had a very specific request for fans to make the big day special.

Meghan Markle(Image: WireImage)

As Meghan Markle prepares to celebrate her 44th birthday, she will no doubt be receiving stunning gifts from all her loved ones to mark the special day.

In honor of her birthday, the Duchess of Sussex has previously asked her devoted followers to give something back to themselves instead, despite everyone’s love for a good birthday gift.

Meghan’s birthday this year has been marked by her cryptic As Ever post as she teased a new wine product. However in 2014, before Meghan met Prince Harry and was known for her role on TV show Suits, she was gearing up to celebrate her 33rd birthday, telling her dedicated fans specific instructions on how they should mark the day for themselves.

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Meghan Markle
Meghan requested an unusual request from her fans in honor of her 33rd birthday in 2014?

Meghan simply asked her fans to do something kind for one another on her blog The Tig, which she frequently posted on while living in Canada and making the hit legal drama.

She stated in the opening sentence, “I am 33 years old today.” And I’m content. And I say that so clearly because, well, it takes time. I want you to be kind to yourself, so here’s what I want as a birthday present for my birthday. I ask that you take a challenge on yourself.

I want you to stop gushing, to try a dish that makes you uncomfortable, to purchase coffee just because, to express your love to someone, and then to apologize. You must discover happiness, please. I did . And it’s never felt so good.

Meghan frequently posts about her favorite foods, travel destinations, and wellness journey on the blog, which is named after her favorite red wine.

After it became clear that she had been dating Prince Harry, she eventually shut down the website and shared an emotional final message with her followers.

Meghan Markle
She asked her followers to “find their happiness” and “be kind to yourself”(Image: Getty Images)

In her closing post, Meghan praised her readers for making her “days brighter” and urged them to “keep laughing and taking risks, and keep being ‘the change you wish to see in the world ‘”.

Above all, never forget your worth, as I have repeatedly remarked to you, my sweet friend, are sufficient.

Meghan shared what she wishes for her birthday every year on her now-defunct blog, which she started as an inspiration for her mother, Doria Ragland. Meghan once said she keeps resolutions for herself and what she wants to accomplish for the year in the future.

Writing in 2016, she said: “My mom has always said that birthdays are your own personal New Year. Your own chance to make resolutions just for yourself and what you prognosticate for your year ahead.”

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Meghan frequently wishes the same thing every birthday, according to the blog. More surprises, more adventure, more growth opportunities, more giggle-filled days, more delicious meals, and more inspiration, she claimed. Always more inspiration.

‘I ditched my normal fake tan for this self-tanning milk and my skin has never felt softer’

Meghan, a writer of shopping, has switched out her traditional foam self-tanner for this cutting-edge tanning milk, which has transformed her skin’s “look and feel” so smooth.

‘I ditched my normal tan for this tanning milk—my skin has never felt softer’(Image: Meghan Coon)

I tried a variety of self-tanners this year, including drugstore classics and celebrity-loved foams, but I think my most recent tanning discovery is the best. This self-tanner milk from the renowned brand Bali Body has a milky consistency that resembles skincare rather than my typical tanners.

This self-tanning product is unlike anything I’ve tried before because it has no sticky residue, long drying times, or even any color cast, and I was initially very skeptical.

Other tanners I’ve tested had disappointing results, with poor pigmentation and patchy results. Additionally, when applying the tanner, you run the risk of making mistakes because you can’t see where you applied it. However, this tanning milk was not at all disappointing; in fact, I don’t believe I’ll be using any other tanning lotion for the rest of the summer.

This collagen supplement has “a noticeable change to skin and joints,” according to Davina McCall.

READ MORE: Maura Higgins decorates her new home with “beautiful” bean bag armchairs that are currently available.

Bali Body Self Tanning Milk 240ml
Meghan’s new Bali Body Self Tanning Milk(Image: Meghan Coon)

This tanning product has a name that sounds more like a creamy serum than a moisturiser, foam, or mousse, as the name suggests. Although it’s advised to apply the milk directly to the skin and then use the mitt (or brush if you prefer) to spread it around, it’s still suggested to use a tanning mitt to buff the liquid into the skin.

I was initially a little unsure about the milky formula, as I already mentioned. This only increased as I began to buff it in, and the thin serum-like tanner started to hydrate the skin without leaving any visible color. However, I backed the band, which is known for producing impressive self-tan lotions.

I applied all over, which was simple because of the thin consistency, but I had some issues with streaking or missing patches because I wasn’t entirely sure where the areas I wanted to cover were evenly saturated.

This milk doesn’t have a designated time you have to leave it in, instead being more like a gradual tanner. It doesn’t need to be rinsed off either because there isn’t a color cast. I therefore decided to leave mine there for about 8 or 9 hours.

By the time I applied, the tanner was already beginning to dry down without leaving behind a tacky texture. My skin was already soft and hydrated, in a way I’ve never felt with a tanning product before. I love that my skin wasn’t sticky or still damp from the tan because I frequently leave it on overnight and don’t like to feel tacky when I go to bed.

Being honest, when I first woke up, the tanner hadn’t done a lot, which is slightly disappointing since I switched to the medium-to-dark variety. Nothing about this screamed “I’ve just returned from a holiday on the coast,” despite my apparent glow and healthy tinge of color.

Despite that, my skin felt incredible. It didn’t feel weighed down by the tanner because it was so soft and smooth. I felt extremely hydrated and revived. However, the color didn’t work as I had anticipated; it’s worth noting that I prefer to use fake tan, so this may be the first layer for someone who wants a subtle, sunkissed look without going three shades darker.

I tried the tanning milk once more to see if it had any effect, and I’m so glad I did. My skin on my arms and legs was just as glowy and healthy when I woke up, and it appeared almost blurry on them.

Meghan Coon
Before and after(Image: Meghan Coon)

Even the most dry areas like elbows, knees, and armpits aren’t significantly dryer or patchier than the rest of my body, which I can only attribute to the fact that this milk definitely hydrates the skin while tanning.

The colour is stunning and just what I was looking for, and the end results are unbelievably seamless—no streaking, patches, or weird pigmentation. My skin looks flawless and feels so healthy. I’ve already received comments from friends and family who’ve noticed how smooth my skin looks and feels.

Since it’s only been a week so far, I can’t say how long the tan will last, but I have noticed that the areas where my tan typically lifts first (feet, hands, armpits, around the bra area) are still in the water whether it’s from sweat, clothes, or washing have not yet diminished. The tan didn’t appear to have changed even after a gym session. And I only noticed a small amount of color rinsing after taking a shower, which is comforting. Additionally, no stains are left on clothes or bed sheets because the color cast is absent.

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Truly a blend of skincare and self-tanner, I don’t think I’ll go back to using other tanning products this summer, and it’s quickly become a firm favourite of mine. Plus, for 240ml, this tanning milk is relatively affordable, selling for £27 from Boots, ASOS, and select supermarkets, including Sainsbury’s.

Alan Titchmarsh issues warning to reality star over King Charles comment

Following his recent honorable promotion to the CBE, Gardnerer and ITV star Alan Titchmarsh urged a reality TV star to refrain from calling King Charles by a particular title.

For about 40 years, Alan Titchmarsh and King Charles have been friends.

Alan Titchmarsh has issued a warning about King Charles III to a television star, who is keen to receive an honourable title in the future. The-76 year-old was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2000 for services to horticulture and broadcasting.

He was elevated to the rank of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) earlier this year because of his contributions to horticulture and charitable causes. On their Talk Horse podcast, he appeared alongside Made in Chelsea’s Tristan Phipps and equestrian legend Pippa Funnell MBE shortly after receiving his new award from the King.

Tristan made it clear to the audience that the broadcasting was taking place from Windsor Castle’s “beautiful” gardens, and that “his Royal Highness” was “about 200 meters” away from them. He continued, “I’ve got MBEs, CBEs,” as he described those in his presence. Here, I received some prestigious awards.

He remarked to Alan: “I’m working on mine. If you could put a good word in with the big man [King Charles] next door, that would be [good].” In response, Alan playfully warned Tristan about the way he had referred to the King, his friend of over 40 years.

Tristan Phipps
Tristan Phipps was advised against referring to King Charles as “His Royal Highness.”

He said, “Well, you’ll do better if you start calling him Your Royal Highness rather than His Majesty.” Tristan remarked, “His Majesty, yes, see I need extra lessons.”

Alan continued, “He]Charles has, as he used to say, [Has] gone one.”

King Charles ascended to the throne following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, on 8 September 2022. Once a Royal becomes a King or Queen, they are referred to as His/Her Majesty, while other members of the Royal family are addressed as His/Her Royal Highness (HRH).

Alan and Charles have shared a friendship that has lasted for more than forty years, due to their mutual passion for gardening. Over the years, Alan has commended the King for his active role in environmental conservation.

During an appearance on This Morning, he stated: “He’s a man with an enormous, enormous social conscience and also environmental conscience. But, he also put it into practice, he doesn’t just talk about it, he does it. He’s the hardest working person I know.”

King Charles III and Alan Titchmarsh
The gardening hobby shared by King Charles and Alan Titchmarsh

Alan revealed that he doesn’t offer the King any gardening advice despite having a special interest in a subject Charles adores. Instead, their discussions center on how their mutual respect for nature could be improved.

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The ex-Ground Force star further explained that “anyone who knows him at all, who has worked with him, is just in awe of his boundless energy.” He is so upbeat that he doesn’t just talk; he actually does.

He continued, quoting what the monarch had previously said to him when he received his CBE earlier this year: “He very gracious said I’m climbing up the ladder, which was nice of him – from MBE to CBE.”

Maura Higgins decorates new home with ‘beautiful’ bean bag armchairs that are now on sale

The first piece of furniture Maura Higgins displayed was these onsale beanbag armchairs, which she has been showing off to fans as she decorates her brand-new home.

Maura Higgins decorates new home with on-sale ‘beautiful’ bean bag armchairs(Image: Maura Higgins/Instagram)

Maura Higgins has recently moved into her new £1.2 million home, and she’s created a new Instagram account to take fans on her decoration journey as she turns the empty space into her dream home.

Last week, the Love Island star showed off her first few pieces of furniture in her otherwise completely empty living room, and we think we’ve found the place to buy your own – and for a reduced price.

Maura displayed her two new beanbags and wrote, “Two new bombshells entered Casa A’Maura,” captioning the image with a Love Island pun. She continues to praise these beanbags as “beautiful” because of how she shows off their comfort and minimalistic chic options.

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Maura Higgins Instagram post
Maura shared a photo of her new beanbag armchairs from Icon(Image: Maura Higgins/Instagram)
Natalia Fleece Armchair by Icon
Maura’s Natalia Fleece Armchair by Icon is now reduced to £129.99(Image: Icon)

Two Natalia Fleece Armchairs by Icon, which are currently on sale at Debenhams for less than their full price, are Maura’s new pieces of furniture.

These beanbags are designed with cosy armchairs in mind, guaranteeing you’ll fall asleep peacefully. The luxurious beanbag armchair from Icons is wrapped in a soft, boucle fabric, making it a stylish addition for cozy spaces. These beanbags have been created with the aim of offering exceptional back support and comfort in mind. They have a unique internal structure and built-in armrests to maintain proper posture without causing any long-term discomfort.

Maura’s luxurious beanbags provide comfort without sacrificing style. This armchair offers warmth and comfort that will undoubtedly give any living space a cozy feel thanks to its soft texture and warm feel. Double-stitched seams, a base that resists water, and hidden zippers make it durable for a long time.

These light beanbags are ideal for moving between rooms and fit any setting. The super portable bean bag, which can easily be taken and moved around, gives you on-the-go comfort.

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Due to this deal, Maura’s ivory beanbag armchairs are currently priced at £129.99. Normally, they sell for 179.99. Although prices will vary, you can also purchase them from Beanbag Bazaar for £149.99, where bundles are available to purchase an additional footstool.

Myleene Klass’ ex‑husband Graham Quinn: From heroin offences to betrayal on her birthday

At her own birthday party, Myleene Klass claims to have found her ex-husband “cheating” on her with another famous person in a new bombshell interview about him.

Myleene Klass and Graham Quinn
Myleene Klass and Graham Quinn were married in 2011 but divorced in 2013(Image: Getty Images)

Pop star turned TV presenter Myleene Klass has opened up about the heartbreaking moment she discovered her now ex-husband “cheated” on her with a famous celebrity at her own birthday party.

Myleene, 47, shed light on the moment during a podcast episode with Married At First Sight’s Paul C Brunson. She revealed on his show, We Need To Talk: “I walked in on him with a famous person on my birthday on a balcony.”

The mother-of-three claimed the pair tried to brush off their actions, but she insists “they were unzipping each other”. She continued: “I kicked everybody out of the party, including his mum and dad. They went back to Ireland and his dad said, ‘He doesn’t get it from me’. I just remember that as being quite a weird thing to say.”

READ MORE: Myleene Klass’ ex-husband’s bitter words after divorce turned sour following ‘cheating’

Myleene Klass claimed that after discovering her ex-husband’s “cheating,” her entire world collapsed.

Myleene, who lives with her now-ex-boyfriend Ava, 17, and Hero, 13, both admitted to living together after discovering exactly what happened after she spotted the pair “unzipping” each other.

Graham Quinn, who is he?

Myleene's wedding
Myleene said she ‘cried’ during her wedding reception(Image: Twitter)

Graham and Myleene first met when Graham was a security guard for Myleene’s pop group, Hear ‘Say, from the beginning of the year 2000.

The couple started dating in the middle of the 2000s, and they welcomed their second child, Hero, in 2011 and their first, Ava, in 2007. They got married in 2011, but their union ended just six months later, and the divorce was finalized in 2013.

allegations of Heroin

Prior to this, Myleene has previously discussed the legal issues involving her ex-husband. He was reportedly detained at one point in connection with charges of heroin possession and distribution.

Myleene revealed Graham had jumped bail after being detained at the age of 17 for heroin possession in his native Dublin in a 2012 interview with The Standard.

He was very upfront with me about what he had done before we even thought about starting a relationship, she said. He was young and suffocated by a hostile environment. I found his honesty and lack of justifications for his actions shocking, but I also applauded his sincerity. To judge, who was I?

He was given a suspended prison sentence, was fined, and has since become a supporter of the Drugsline Foundation, where he educates students about the risks of drugs.

Myleene Klass
Myleene shares two children with Graham(Image: Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/Getty I)

Birthday betrayal

They weren’t having sex, Myleene said in the podcast, “but they were unzipping each other.”

She described how she felt about the unnamed lover who had been separated from her ex-husband as a result as: “I’ve made peace with that situation now, but it’s been very difficult to see their life for a long time.

Not that I would want that in a family, I suppose… I don’t know if I’m conflicted. My life literally literally literally splintered very publicly, and they’ve managed to maintain a family brand as a result. For a long time, it felt so challenging.

Wedding

Within six months, the marriage allegedly ended. She felt betrayed by Quinn’s secret real estate purchase and refusal to consent to a prenuptial agreement.

We had the largest row, she said, as she put it. I had questioned why he wouldn’t sign the marriage. I asked again the night before our wedding… He actually owned a secret house, which he had already purchased.

The relationship was emotionally and financially draining, and the divorce came afterward. As a single parent for 12 years, Myleene said, “All I can tell you is that I’ve raised my children on my own, financially, and single-handedly.”

My life literally literally just broke apart very publicly, according to Myleene, and they have managed to maintain a family brand as a result.

She recalled their wedding as the “most miserable” time, and she cried the entire reception.

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