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Stand the child on a flat surface with their heel against a wall and measure from the wall to the longest toe, which is not always the big toe. Measure both feet late in the day and use the larger figure. Check that measurement against the size information on each product page.

Most schools require a separate PE kit including trainers, so school shoes should be treated as everyday footwear rather than a replacement for that. A non-marking outsole may be required for use in a school hall, and the school's own rules decide what is permitted.

Remeasure the foot at the start of each term rather than judging by eye, since feet grow at uneven rates and a structured shoe gives little away from the outside. On shoes, the outsole tread and the fastening usually wear before the upper does. On bags, look at the zip pulls and the stitching where the straps meet the body, since those carry the load.