Five of the best: Bits to pack in your pencil case

The best thing about the start of the school year has always been the fresh bits and pieces packed into your pencil case. It's been a while since I had a back-to-school spring in my step, but I still love playing with stationery. I've handpicked some quirky and colourful pieces that will make school way more cool this year.

1 For everyday use, you need a really good pen in blue or black. Might as well make it a groovy one if you're going to have to grip it all those hours you spend in class. Kikki-K boasts a huge range to sift through and find the one that fits ($4.90 each or $12.90 for a three-pack).

We love the Adventure Awaits print as a reminder of why it's important to hit the books.

2 You might have your pen licence, but you always need a collection of lead pencils in your case. I still use them to write notes, draw sketches and jot down plans. A jazzy set makes life more interesting, plus no one will be able to pinch your pencil. You can pick from an assortment of colours at thecarboncrusader.com or request your own custom-made piece. Prices differ, depending on what you're after and there is generally a minimum order of six. There's even one for every day of the week.

3 These crafty comic-print scissors from Typo, $11.99, will make chopping up cardboard for school projects super(hero) fun. Kapow!

4 I fondly remember dressing up my school diary with doodles in an array of rainbow-bright pens. Save your pocket money for this 30-pack of Smiggle pens ($29.95) which includes a mega mix of gel, glitter, neon and pastel pens.

5 To stash your goodies you're going to need a pencil case you don't want to lose. There are oodles to choose from at Typo. We dig the moustached Bailey case, $14.95, in almond and black.