The summer holidays are over which means that normality must resume. For teachers, returning to the classroom after a six-week summer break, it can feel overwhelming to get back into the swing of things. However, the start of a new term is a great time to create the right mindset for a successful year ahead. In this guide from education recruitment agency Spencer Clarke Group, you will learn helpful tips to achieve a balanced start to the term, whether you’re an early career teacher or a seasoned pro!
Tips for teachers going back to school
Back to school tips for teachers returning to school, include:
- Pace yourself.
- Plan and prepare.
- Stay positive and enthusiastic.
Pace yourself
As you return to the classroom, you might feel the urge to tackle everything at once. However, it’s important to take your time. Educators who pace themselves effectively are more likely to maintain focus, positivity and resilience throughout the entire term. They are also more likely to avoid burnout.
Teachers manage demanding tasks including lesson planning, meeting parents, marking and teaching the academic syllabus. They need time to stay on top of their workload while fostering a healthy work-life balance and getting to know their students.
Teachers will benefit by establishing a realistic schedule in which to complete responsibilities. By creating a balanced schedule, teachers can maintain the quality of their work, stay organised, and ensure they are giving their best to their students.
Plan and prepare
One of the most important things teachers can do to ensure they start the school year right is to get organised. Educators need to have strong planning and preparation skills to create a structured lesson framework. Effective planning sets clear rules and routines in the classroom, allowing teachers to concentrate on their students and adapt to their needs successfully. It ultimately enhances student understanding and ensures that teachers can create focused and successful learning experiences for all.
For a balanced start to the term, teachers can create their own personal development plans as well as plans for their students.
Effective planning goes beyond classroom strategies and organising supplies. It also involves preparing snacks, lunches, and clothes to wear the night before. This approach allows teachers to avoid the stress of rushing around and start as they mean to go on.
Stay positive and enthusiastic
After a six-week break, teachers are likely feeling refreshed and excited to return to the classroom with renewed motivation. With a positive mindset and enthusiasm for the new term, teachers can inspire their students and create a greater sense of belonging at school.
Being a positive influence and a role model for students at the start of the school year can help create a collaborative culture in this classroom.
Teachers who are positive, supportive and empathetic help pupils feel understood within the classroom. This can enhance performance and foster positive teacher-pupil relationships, resulting in positive outcomes for academic learning, development and wellbeing.
By adopting a positive attitude towards teaching and supporting students, teachers can start the new school year well and create a safe, thriving environment.
What do Teachers need for back to school?
Having a Teacher checklist is crucial to start the new year right. Educators need to feel prepared, and a well-stocked classroom is essential. This includes everything from stationery and supplies to display equipment.
Must-haves classroom supplies for Teachers:
- Antibacterial wipes.
- Tissues.
- Hand sanitiser.
- Stationary including pens, pencils and whiteboard markers.
- Stickers.
- Sticky notes.
- Paper clips.
- Labels.
- Stapler.
- Notice or bulletin board.
- Blu tack.
- Storage bins.
- Healthy snacks.
- A water bottle.
Who is Spencer Clarke Group?
Spencer Clarke Group is a specialist education recruitment agency based in the heart of the North West. Operating nationwide, they help schools to find experienced teaching and support staff on a daily, temporary, temp-perm or permanent basis.
After growing exponentially since they launched in 2017, Spencer Clarke Group was named Recruitment Agency of the Year at the 2024 Recruiter Awards.
