What do I need?

[Pat "5mph"]

Jaz, don't spend too much on all this gear for commuting to school. My commute is only 5 miles each way, even on the coldest days last winter I was getting at my destination well heated up just wearing normal winter clothing, and I only pedal 5 mph
Get good lights if you're using an unlit cycle path.
I would suggest (seasoned cyclist are free to laugh) not to bother about fixing punctures at the side of the road when it's dark and wet.
Always carry a tenner and your mobile with you, if you break down just leave the path, call a black taxi to take you and the bike home.

 

[SportMonkey]

Waterproof jackets only have point if you're taking it easy, as soon as you're putting any effort in you'll cook yourself and end up soaking wet and smelly, instead of just wet. Gloves are useful - but get more than one set (see previous sentence). Otherwise long sleeve thermals (Craft ones are excellent, I still have mine from racing kayaks back in 2002) and normal lycras/commute kit.

 

[Deleted member 20519]

Jaz, don't spend too much on all this gear for commuting to school. My commute is only 5 miles each way, even on the coldest days last winter I was getting at my destination well heated up just wearing normal winter clothing, and I only pedal 5 mph
Get good lights if you're using an unlit cycle path.
I would suggest (seasoned cyclist are free to laugh) not to bother about fixing punctures at the side of the road when it's dark and wet.
Always carry a tenner and your mobile with you, if you break down just leave the path, call a black taxi to take you and the bike home.

Hey Pat, the gear won't be used for commuting, I'm wanting to cycle all year round and I do some longer rides where it might get very cold. The lights are on the agenda and I carry a spare tube which I know how to fit in just a few minutes. Money + phone will always be with me! Thanks

 

[Jenkins]

I'd also suggest spending a couple of quid extra and getting the Crudracer Mk2 mudguards not the Mk1 you've linked to as they give better coverage at the back.

 

[Deleted member 20519]

I'd also suggest spending a couple of quid extra and getting the Crudracer Mk2 mudguards not the Mk1 you've linked to as they give better coverage at the back.

Did I link the MK1? I meant to link the Mk2, will fix the link now. Thanks.

 

[Moodyman]

You've not got a bike on your list.

Plus my tip is to get a good puncture resistance tyre on the rear. It's no fun changing a tube when your hands are frozen.

 

[Deleted member 20519]

You've not got a bike on your list.

Plus my tip is to get a good puncture resistance tyre on the rear. It's no fun changing a tube when your hands are frozen.

I knew there was something I've forgotten! Why get a puncture resistant tyre on the rear only?

 

[Moodyman]

I knew there was something I've forgotten! Why get a puncture resistant tyre on the rear only?

Most punctures occur on the rear so max protection with something like a Marathon Plus means you got most protection where you need it, but are not overly slowing your bike down.