Muscat – Students across Oman will return to classrooms next week with a mix of anticipation, excitement and nerves as families and teachers prepare for the start of a new academic year.

For parents, the back-to-school season means more than buying uniforms, notebooks and supplies. It also involves reorganising daily routines, adjusting sleeping patterns and helping children prepare emotionally for the year ahead.

Aida Al Manthry, a mother of seven, said preparations begin well before classes resume.

“I begin preparing my children for the new academic year before classes start. I organise their schedules, make sure their clothes and school supplies are ready, and gradually adjust their sleeping and waking times,” she told Muscat Daily.

While some children take longer to settle, others, she said, are eager to return and meet friends.

Rising prices remain a concern. “I have noticed that some items have become more expensive, adding financial pressure on families. When buying school supplies, I always consider quality, cost and necessity,” Aida said.

Her advice to parents is simple: plan early, support children and avoid unnecessary academic pressure.

For Salah Al Qarni, a father of four, school preparations should also include conversations about the value of education.

He said parents should maintain regular communication with schools and ensure children have enough time for rest and leisure.

Al Qarni raised concern about unverified information circulating about uniforms and school requirements, saying unclear communication can leave parents uncertain over whether instructions apply widely or only to individual schools.

He called for stronger school-parent engagement and suggested reducing projects that are often completed by parents or bought commercially, arguing that such activities should instead be carried out by students in class.

Students ready for challenge

For Grade 11 student Albaraah Al Zakwani, preparing for school has become easier with experience.

She said school supplies continue to become more expensive, although discounts this year have helped reduce costs. “I have become increasingly eager to study and take on my responsibilities,” she said, adding that the encouragement of her parents gives her confidence and motivation.

Grade 12 student Abdulaziz Al Rahbi sees the new year differently. It is his final year at school and, with university approaching, comes greater responsibility.

“Starting my final year of school feels like the beginning of a new chapter in my life,” he said. “I am excited because I am getting closer to university and my future, but I also feel a little nervous.”

His biggest challenge will be returning to early mornings and regular study after the summer break.

“I feel ready to face this year because I want to get good grades and make myself and my family proud,” Al Rahbi said.

Teachers, too, see the new academic year as a fresh start.

Mona Nashat said the first few days are important for helping students readjust after the summer.

“For some students, it can be difficult to wake up early, concentrate in class or return to a regular study schedule,” she said.

Mona said she focuses on creating a welcoming atmosphere during the first week through enjoyable activities and clear routines.

“This year, I hope to see students grow in confidence, motivation and responsibility,” she said. “Every challenge is an opportunity to grow.”

(Contributed by Asrar Badar Al Zakwani)