Sharpen your pencils & get back to School.
- Lynsey Welstead
- Sep 4, 2023
- 2 min read
September, despite being a month associated with the beginning of autumn and the shedding of leaves, has become synonymous with fresh starts and renewal in the context of the academic calendar. This association is deeply rooted in the traditional school year, where students and teachers return to classrooms after summer holidays, ready to embark on a new academic journey.
I wondered whether the adult workforce... even if they no longer have their children at school, experience a sense of nostalgia & a "Back to School" feeling in September themselves ... I know I do!

The association of September with the start of the academic year is deeply ingrained in our culture and has been reinforced through years of conditioning.
For many people, September brings back memories of preparing for a new school year with new school stationery, and sometimes new shoes or clothing.
Feelings can be triggered by various factors, such as the changing seasons, the sight of advertising popping up in the summer holidays in shops, or social media posts from friends and family members who have kids going back to school. It's a reminder of a time of new beginnings, excitement, and the anticipation of learning and growth.
Even though adults may not be directly participating in the back-to-school routine, the association with September can evoke a sense of renewal and fresh starts, leading to a mixture of emotions that can vary from person to person. Some may feel a tinge of sadness or longing for their school days, while others might feel a sense of motivation to set new goals or embark on personal development journeys.

Adults get that"Back to School" feeling in September, with memories of sharpened pencils and new shoes as part of that nostalgic experience.
Autumn is symbolised by the changing colours of leaves and nature's transition, also aligns with this sense of renewal. The idea of starting afresh, setting new goals, and embracing new challenges becomes prevalent during this time prompting people to take stock of their lives, set new objectives, and approach the coming months with a fresh perspective.
Additionally, as the summer months wind down and the pace of life may change, September serves as a transition point for many, leading to a chance to reevaluate priorities.
Overall, the association of September with fresh starts and renewal is a powerful cultural phenomenon, influencing how both young and old perceive this time of the year.
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