Ah, the sweet arrival of summer holidays! Every teacher’s well-deserved break and the perfect time to truly unwind. But if you’re anything like me, there’s that tiny voice in the back of your head, listing all the tasks for the upcoming school year. To ensure this doesn’t overshadow your relaxation, we’ve gathered some summer tips for teachers, straight from fellow educators.
Our summer tips for teachers are all about finding that balance. It’s easy to think about pushing everything to the end of the break, but we all know that can lead to a frantic last few days.
10 Summer tips for teachers
That blissful time when the classroom’s hustle and bustle fades into the background, replaced by the gentle hum of nature and the promise of relaxation. But, as every educator knows, the mind can sometimes wander back to the classroom, even when you’re trying to enjoy a sun-soaked afternoon. So, to ensure you truly relish every moment of this well-deserved hiatus, we’ve curated a list just for you. Here are our top summer tips for teachers, designed to keep you cool as a cucumber, as serene as a summer breeze, and in complete control of your vacation vibes. Dive in, and discover how to truly maximise the joys of your summer break:
- Get planning done early so that it is out of the way. But only plan for the first two weeks – as things could change once term starts. Set an amount of time that you will dedicate to planning and try not to go over this. Another good reason to get things done early on is so that you don’t forget anything. But don’t try to do weeks and weeks of planning – as long as you have your first two weeks organised and fully planned in the summer, then you will be good to go in September. Our planners are available to order at any point in the summer or into the new school year, and are a handy way to pull everything together and keep your classroom and students organised.
- Preperation: If you are changing the curriculum, then get to know it. Even if you aren’t, find out if anything has changed: any expectations or assessment criteria. Be prepared and make sure you have the long- and medium-term planning from the school. This way, your weekly plans will be much easier to do in term time. Check that the timetables have been done and that you have your class lists. Try to recall anything that worked well last year, and use it again in September.
- Classroom Setup: Setting up or clearing out your classroom is often a summer task. But, evaluate if it truly needs a revamp. I’ve spent countless summer hours on classroom setups, only to return in September feeling drained. Opt for minimal setups initially. Schedule specific dates for school visits and avoid overthinking it until then. Remember, the start of the year doesn’t demand intricate displays. Opt for blank displays and evolving working walls to be filled as months progress.
- Self Care: Ok, now that the work has been taken care of, it’s time to take care of you! We all start the new school year with grand plans of going to the gym and attending classes etc, but you are much more likely to stick to this if it is planned in advance. Get that gym membership paid for and make a note of the classes that you want to attend in September. Be realistic about what you can commit to, and you will be less likely to give up. If the gym isn’t your thing, then maybe a course, or some kind of challenge, or maybe plan some trips for half term so you have something to look forward to. It’s important to have interests outside of teaching and it will make you a happier and more interesting person….and teacher!
- Set Clear Boundaries: One of the best summer tips for teachers is to set clear boundaries between work and relaxation. Dedicate specific days or hours for school-related tasks and stick to them. This way, you can ensure that you have ample uninterrupted time to relax and rejuvenate.
- Organise and Declutter: A pivotal summer tip for teachers is to declutter. Sift through old files, discard obsolete materials, and systematise digital resources. A tidy workspace at the start of the school year can be invigorating.
- Engage in Professional Development: Summer is a great time for teachers to engage in professional development. Whether it’s attending a workshop, reading a new educational book, or taking an online course, investing in yourself can be both fulfilling and beneficial for the upcoming year.
- Network and Connect: Summer is the perfect time to build and nurture your professional network. Reach out to fellow educators, join teacher forums, or participate in local or online teacher groups. Sharing experiences, discussing new teaching methodologies, or simply connecting with peers can provide fresh perspectives and ideas. This not only enriches your teaching approach but also creates a supportive community you can lean on during challenging times. Plus, you never know when these connections might lead to collaborative projects or opportunities in the future. So, as part of your summer tips for teachers, remember to invest time in building relationships – it’s an investment in your professional growth.
- Stay Inspired with New Resources: Delve into the world of educational resources this summer. Whether it’s discovering new books, apps, or online platforms, keeping your teaching toolbox updated is essential. Exploring fresh resources not only enhances your lessons but also reignites your passion for teaching. You might stumble upon a new interactive tool that makes a particular subject more engaging or a book that offers innovative classroom strategies. By the time September rolls around, you’ll be armed with a plethora of new ideas, making your lessons more dynamic and engaging. So, as you consider summer tips for teachers, remember the value of continuous discovery and the excitement of bringing something new to your students.
- Rest and Rejuvenate: The ultimate summer tip for teachers? Relaxation. Indulge in activities you’ve yearned for during the term. Reconnect with loved ones, explore new places, or simply bask in the comfort of your home. Remember, life isn’t solely about work. While it’s tempting to work through the break, a rejuvenated you is invaluable. So, with all these summer tips for teachers in place, switch off and savor the break, knowing you’re well-prepared for what lies ahead.
In wrapping up, the summer break isn’t just a hiatus from the classroom; it’s a prime time for educators to recharge, reorganise, and reflect. The allure of the to-do list might be strong, but with the right summer tips for teachers, balance is achievable.
By integrating these summer tips for teachers into your break, you’re not only gearing up for the next term but also ensuring you make the most of every sun-soaked moment. These summer tips for teachers aren’t just about preparation; they’re about cherishing your well-deserved break. So, as the days unfold, remember: a teacher who embraces these summer tips is set to inspire and thrive come September.