The end of the holidays marks a significant transition for both teachers and students in the UK. As schools reopen their doors, you find yourself gearing up for another exciting academic year. 

The return to the classroom after a break, though invigorating, can also be a bit daunting. In this blog, we’ll explore some valuable tips and advice to help you smoothly navigate the back-to-school transition and create a positive learning environment for your students.

1. Reflect & Reset

Before the school year begins, you should take some time to reflect on the previous term. What worked well in your teaching methods? What could be improved?

Consider the feedback from students and colleagues, and use it to reset your teaching strategies. This process of self-assessment will help you start the new term with a clearer vision of your goals.

2. Plan Ahead

Planning is key to a successful start. Outline your curriculum for the upcoming term, including key topics, assessments, and projects. Break down your plan into weekly or monthly milestones to help you stay on track.

Twinkl offers free organisers and planners, as well as advice on meal planning and outfits.

Having a well-structured plan will help you reduce stress and ensure that you cover all necessary material while allowing flexibility for adjustments.

3. Create A Welcoming Classroom Environment

A warm and inviting classroom sets the tone for positive learning experiences. Consider redesigning your classroom layout, updating bulletin boards, and adding fresh decorations that align with your teaching themes.

A welcoming environment can make students feel comfortable and excited about being back in school.

‘Check out some books if you’re struggling with motivation or inspiration for lessons. There are countless resources available that can provide ideas and activities for almost any subject area or age group, so take advantage of them.’  Senploy blog by Karolina Ferdicova

4. Establish Clear Communication

Effective communication is crucial between teachers, students, and parents. Send out introductory letters to parents to introduce yourself and provide an overview of the upcoming year. Share your preferred methods of communication and encourage parents to reach out with any concerns or questions.

For older students, discuss your expectations for class participation and behaviour on the first day.

Teachers are excellent communicators but if you want to brush up on your skills this blog from Mary Sharp Emerson a Digital Content Producer at Harvard is worth reading: Eight things you can do to improve your communication skills

5. Set Realistic Goals

Set both short-term and long-term goals for yourself and your students. Short-term goals could include completing a certain unit or project within a specific timeframe, while long-term goals might focus on improving specific skills throughout the year. 

Communicate these goals to your students to keep them motivated and engaged.

6. Prioritise Self-Care

As educators, it’s easy to get caught up in the demands of teaching and forget about self-care. Remember that taking care of yourself directly impacts your ability to support your students. Make time for activities that rejuvenate you, whether it’s reading, exercising, spending time with loved ones, or pursuing a hobby.

‘Here are some top tips on how you can change that to make sure you can take care of the most important thing in your life…YOU.’ London Doctors Clinic blog on self-care

7. Embrace Technology

Incorporate technology into your teaching methods to enhance engagement and learning. Utilise digital resources, online quizzes, educational apps, and interactive platforms to keep lessons dynamic and captivating. 

One recommendation we would make is Blooket, their mission is to create memorable experiences with classroom content. It’s free to use with the option of paid add-ons.

Stay updated on the latest educational technology trends to make your classroom experience more effective.

It could be worth subscribing to Al Kingsley’s (CEO NetSupport, Multi Academy Trust Chair, RSC Advisory Board, ISC Top 10 Global Edrupter, Author/Speaker, EdTech Champion, 2023 Edufuturist, BESA EdTech Chair, Forbes)  Edu Newsletter: Al’s Edu Recommends – Sharing great Education resources, news, apps, books, podcasts and much more, each week. 

8. Collaborate with Colleagues

Sharing experiences and ideas with fellow teachers is incredibly beneficial. Collaborative planning sessions, brainstorming and peer feedback provides fresh perspectives and exposes you to innovative strategies.

Collaborating with colleagues can help you discover new teaching techniques and problem-solving approaches.

You can save time collaborating with students’ and/or colleagues’ by using platforms such as Padlet boards for organising and sharing content. Its free to use Padlet to add text, images, audio and video. You can share with others in real-time and then collaborate to create a learning resource or homework. Padlet boards are great for displaying the research undertaken by students and can be accessed for revision further down the line.

9. Flexibility is Key

Despite the most meticulous planning, unexpected situations can arise. Whether it’s a change in the curriculum or a sudden event, being adaptable is essential. Embrace flexibility and find creative solutions to challenges as they arise.

10. Maintain a Positive Mindset

Approach the new school term with enthusiasm and positivity. Your attitude has a significant impact on your students’ experiences. A positive and optimistic mindset can foster a supportive and encouraging learning environment.

Conclusion

Returning to school after the holidays is an exciting opportunity for UK teachers to inspire and empower their students. By reflecting on past experiences, planning strategically, and prioritising effective communication, you can set the stage for a successful and enriching academic year. 

Remember that each day presents a chance to make a positive impact on your student’s lives, and with these tips in mind, you’re well-equipped to create an engaging and thriving classroom environment.

“If you aren’t excited at the beginning of a new school year, you are in the wrong job” from the Hayes blog Teachers Guide – Back To School. 

You don’t need to be giddy with excitement to go back to school and make a positive impact, however, if the feeling of returning is extremely negative you should think about a change in school or career. 

Visit the Those Who Can Job Board or our Career Advice Courses & Blogs if you need extra guidance.