
7 Ways to Improve Your Back to School Mornings
The school year is starting up again, and whether you’re a parent doing the school run, a student heading to school or even night classes, the trip to and from can be one of the most overlooked parts of your day. Navigating the first week back after the summer holidays can be tricky. Here are some practical tips to make your school run easier, and maybe even enjoyable.

- Plan Your Route Before Day One
Starting a new school? Don’t wait until the first morning to figure out your journey. Look up bus or train schedules, check the distance using our booking portal, and test your timing. If you’re walking, see if there’s a safer, well-lit shortcut. A trial run before the term starts can help you avoid surprises, like realising your “10-minute walk” is actually a 20-minute uphill trek.
- Build in a Buffer
London rush hour starts from 7:30 am until 9:30 am when the roads and public transport will be at their busiest, so you should aim to leave 10 – 15 minutes earlier than you think you need. Various factors such as morning traffic, late buses, or a flat tyre can delay your journey so it’s much nicer to arrive early and have a moment to breathe than to rush in stressed.

- Pack the Night Before
Nothing slows you down like searching for homework or making a last-minute packed lunch at 7:45 am. Lay out the kids’ clothes, charge any devices needed, and pack their bags the night before. For students with a long commute, keep a small “commute kit” in your bag with water, a snack, and maybe a light sweater in case your bus feels like a freezer.
- Stay Alert, Stay Safe
If you’re using public transport or walking, keep your surroundings in mind. If you’re using headphones, keep the volume low enough to hear traffic and announcements. If it’s dark when you travel, wear visible clothing or reflective gear, and stick to well-lit areas.

- Make Your Commute Work for You
Turn travel time into productive or relaxing time. Listen to an audiobook, review flashcards, catch up on reading, or simply take a few mindful breaths before the school day begins. This way, your commute becomes part of your learning rhythm, not just dead time.
- Create a Bathroom Schedule
Work out time slots where each family member has priority of the bathroom to avoid any arguments. Especially important for those households with multiple children.
- Bottom Line
The journey to school is more than just getting from Point A to Point B, it’s the start of your day or your children’s day. With a little planning and some help from Addison Lee’s taxi service, you can turn it into a calm, safe, and even enjoyable part of your routine.