Best teacher recharge ideas: 19 ways to refresh in the holidays

by Katrina | Dec 28, 2021 | Teacher Tips & Hacks

Best teacher recharge ideas: 19 ways to refresh in the holidays

This post provides 19 teacher recharge ideas to give you inspiration on how you can enjoy your holidays and come back to school feeling refreshed.

2021 was not an easy year and at this stage there is no guarantee that 2022 is going to be any better. But there is no point dwelling on things we cannot change. What we can do is make sure we make the most of our holiday break and return to school feeling as recharged and refreshed as possible.

So how do we do that?

For each person this will look different. I have compiled a list of 19 teacher recharge ideas to try these holidays.

teacher recharge - how to go back to school feeling recharged and refreshed

Disclaimer: This blog post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something from these links I may get a small commission to help support this blog (with no extra cost to you). Read full disclaimer here.

Teacher Recharge Ideas

1. Hang out with people who give you back energy

The holiday season is a great time to spend with family and friends. But despite the love we have for these people, it isn’t uncommon for this time to be very draining. IYKYK. So what I mean by ‘hang out with people who give you back energy’ is to spend time with those people who make you laugh, with whom it feels easy and unforced. That when you walk away you feel refreshed. Hopefully as you have been reading this you have thought of someone in your life who does this for you – message them now and organise a catch up!

2. Organise a section of your home

There is something so freeing about having an organised home! Or so I’ve heard. With two little kiddies I cannot say my house ever looks or feels organised. More like chaos. But! That is my problem not yours! Even if you can just manage to organise one drawer in the kitchen or bedroom it will feel good. If you really want a challenge, tackle the linen closet or pantry. I organised my pantry earlier in the year and I felt like a new woman! It may be the only part of the house that feels like it hasn’t been ruined by little hands but I do get a little spark of joy each time I open the cupboard.

These were the most reasonably priced containers I could find (and I researched for a long time). Get them here!

3. Pack up your Christmas tree

Devastating? Yes. But also – you want to do this before you go back to school or it will quickly become the thing you know you need to do but just don’t have the energy for. Rip the bandaid off and get it done. Trust me, it will be time to put it backup all too soon!

4. Organise a night out with a group

Getting together with a group of mates has such a different vibe to catching up with just one. The energy of the group is something that rarely can be found with one person. Whether it be wine and sip, or movie, or dinner, it doesn’t matter!

5. Read a fictional book

For me, reading a book is escapism and the ultimate teacher recharge. I love escaping into a different world and there is something so different about reading than watching TV (which I do also love). When I watch TV I feel like I also have to keep my hands busy so I often end up working at the same time (I know, I know, I just can’t help myself). But when reading a good book I just can’t help but turn page after page.

If you want a couple of suggestions then here are my faves of the past month (these have absolutely nothing to do with teaching and are just awesome reads!)

The One Impossible Labyrinth by Matthew Riley (Action) note: this is the last in a series so definitely start at book #1
7 Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid (Drama)
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood (Romantic comedy)

6. Spend time on a hobby

I am a big advocate for having a hobby – even more so when you are a teacher. It is so important to look after your mental health and having a hobby that you enjoy that allows you to focus on something other than your teaching to-do list is invaluable.

7. Try something new

Now is the time to try something different! Have a go at something you may have been thinking about for some time but have never got around to. Try a new sport; cook a new recipe; visit a different restaurant; attempt a new skill.

8. Enjoy a coffee – while it is still hot!

Oh the luxury of a hot coffee! One that you can take your time to drink and enjoy without having to multitask while you’re drinking it.

9. Take a nap

Take the opportunity to have a nap or a rest in the middle of the day. It doesn’t happen often. You may not even feel like you need it but sometimes it’s just nice because you can!

10. Schedule some screen free time

It is easy to get into the habit of scrolling through your phone or opening your laptop work when you are bored. Try and schedule some screen free time to let your eyes rest and your brain wander naturally.

11. Put your feet in the ocean (or any water!)

There is something soul refreshing about diving into the ocean. In Australia right now it is Summer and the water is glorious. There is nothing like being a little sun kissed and having the salt from the water dry on your skin.

12.Cook

Is there something you love to cook but never have the time or energy? Now is the time to give it a go.

13. Binge watch a TV show

Get your favourite snacks, comfiest pants and feel no guilt about losing hours of time.

14. Stay in pjs till after lunch

This could easily go hand in hand with the above.

15. Get outside

As a teacher it can be easy to go day after day without actually getting some fresh air and some vitamin D. Take advantage of the beautiful outdoors. Lie in a hammock, go for a bushwalk, or just enjoy sitting outside for your breakfast!

16. Turn off the alarm!

I’d say sleep in but our body clocks often wake us up anyway. But how much nicer is it waking up without the beeping of an alarm!?

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17. Listen to some podcasts

Listening to podcasts or watching some TED talks can be a really nice way to relax and zone out. You may love to listen to topics related to teaching (check out 9 Best TED Talks for Teachers) or topics related. toyour hobbies or faith.

18. Indulge in some skin care

Put on a nice facemask or actually spend more than 15 seconds washing your face and applying lotions. I definitely neglect my skin during school time and so it’s nice to take my time during the holidays.

19. Don’t wear makeup

I am not the kind of teacher who wears makeup. But so many of my teaching friends are! They do enjoy taking some days off their usual morning makeup routine during the holidays.

Conclusion

Taking time to teacher recharge and refresh during the holiday season is so important. What it looks like will be different for everyone.

What do you find helpful when you’re trying to teacher recharge? Please comment below!

If you get to the end of the holiday period and don’t feel refreshed and that you have lost your passion for teaching, check out my post called ‘How to love teaching again’ here.

← 9 Best TED talks for teachers 9 awesome teacher must haves for the classroom 2022 →

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Feel free to share this post with your teaching besties and help them recharge over the break!

Did you find this helpful? Have you got some tips of your own?

Please comment below!

Written by Katrina

Katrina Harte is a multi-award winning educator from Sydney, Australia who specialises in creating resources that support teachers and engage students.

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9 Best TED talks for teachers

by Katrina | Dec 12, 2021 | Leadership

9 Best TED talks for teachers

As we head into the holiday period I am excited to have some time to actually watch some of my favourite TED talks for teachers! During the term I don’t often get the opportunity to indulge in watching such things for my own enjoyment. I definitely should make it more of a priority because after watching some TED talks for teachers I always feel inspired and re-energised.

If you’re still crawling to the end of the year then check out my post ‘How to finish the end of year for teachers‘.

Grab a coffee, sit back and enjoy these wonderful TED talks for teachers!

Disclaimer: This blog post may contain affiliate links. This means I may receive a small commission on qualifying purchases. This is of no extra cost to you and it helps me to continue writing awesome content for you! Read full disclaimer here.

Best TED talks for teachers

TED talks are such a great way to get inspired and keep learning as educators. TED talks entertain, inspire, provoke thought and are excellent for professional development. These are some of the best TED talks for teachers.

1. Do schools kill creativity? Sir Ken Robinson

This was the TED talk that got me addicted to TED talks! And it has remained one of my favourite TED talks for teachers ever since.

Sir Ken Robinson doesn’t just ask the question, but answers it – schools do kill creativity. He is passionate about nurturing the organic learning process of students that allows them to explore their creativity. He questions our education systems that educate students out of creativity rather than promoting it.

This TED talk will make you think about the importance of creativity and how the system is letting our young people down. For me, while I cannot change the education system of my country, it made me think about how I can promote creativity in my own lessons.

2. Every kid needs a champion: Rita Pierson

Oh I wish I had a teacher like Rita Pierson when I was at school!

She understands the value and importance of human connection for the learning and growth of young people. My favourite quote: “kids don’t learn from people they don’t like”. Ain’t that the truth!

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3. Teach teachers how to create magic: Christopher Emdin

In his TED talk, Christopher Emdin talks about the need for teachers to engage their students and compares these necessary skills to those seen in a ‘black church’. The magic he speaks of is the ability to really engage students. Do you have it? Do you want it?

4. How to Make Stress Your Friend: Kelly McGonigal

If you’re a teacher, then you’re also stressed. You can be stressed but not a teacher. But you can’t be a teacher and not be stressed. It’s a fact.

Therefore, this TED talk is a must for teachers!

This is one I also built into my wellbeing program as year 11 welfare advisor. So worth while showing your students as they prepare for their exams as well!

5. Bring on the learning revolution: Sir Ken Robinson

As a follow up to his 2006 TED talk ‘why schools kill creativity’, Sir Ken Robinson charms us with his wit and intelligent insight into the education system. He challenges the linearity of the education system and the ‘fast food’ method which we have adopted and now take for granted.

6. The child-driven education: Sugata Mitra

I’ve actually had the pleasure of hearing Sugata Mitra talk in person at a conference here in Australia. What a privilege to hear his philosophy and the ways in which he has challenged the education system in his own experiments.

These experiments demonstrate the power of collaborative learning and student led discussion. While collaboration is a part of every healthy learning environment, the extent to which the learning was independent of the teacher was staggering.

The reason I like this TED talk is because it really made me think about the capabilities of my students and not to underestimate them.

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7. Creative ways to get kids to engage: Olympia Della Flora

In one of the best TED talks for teachers, school principal Olympia Della Flora challenges us to think differently about what we have and how to engage young learners. She outlines different strategies to use to help students feel safe and to make the transition from home to school much smoother.

This school principal was so present in her school that she was able to identify individual student challenges and make adjustments for them. These strategies helped students build their emotional intelligence as well as their skills in the core curriculum. I praise her for investing in her students in a way that she knew would meet their needs, and not just going along with the norm.

8. How we can help the forgotten middle reach their full potential: Danielle R. Moss

Danielle R.Moss was a “forgotten middle” when she was in school. It wasn’t until her mother really guided her that she began to reach her full potential.

While Danielle starts off a bit nervous, she absolutely had no need to be. Her words hit home hard in the beginning, and unfortunately I understood what she was saying more than I want to admit. She’s right. The middle is often overlooked as they are compliant and quiet and it’s easier to let them slide under the radar while we deal with the students who present behavioural challenges.

Danielle presents a compelling case for strategies that actually work in helping “middle” students reach their potential. I love her acknowledgement that it took a shift in their own perspective and that it required a long term commitment to these students in order to see change.

9. 3 rules to spark learning: Ramsey Musallam

Ok so maybe as a chemistry teacher I was particularly drawn towards this video. But even for those who have no interest in science here this video is a must watch.

Ramsey gives us the tools to really spark curiosity in our students for real authentic learning. My favourite quote from him is “learning is ugly”. This is definitely true in my messy and, more often than I’d like to admit, chaotic science classroom.

← 55 Best Teacher Gifts 2023 Best teacher recharge ideas: 19 ways to refresh in the holidays →

Conclusion

It was so hard to cull the list of amazing TED talks for teachers down to just 9!

Did your favourite TED talk make the list?

Comment below with your favourite TED talk for teachers.

Share the love!

Don’t keep this list to yourself! Share the best TED talks for teachers with your teacher friends and colleagues!

Written by Katrina

Katrina Harte is a multi-award winning educator from Sydney, Australia who specialises in creating resources that support teachers and engage students.

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55 Best Teacher Gifts 2023

by Katrina | Dec 3, 2021 | Teacher gift guides

55 Best Teacher Gifts 2023

Whether you’re wanting teacher gifts for your child’s teacher, a teacher friend, a teacher spouse or family member, this is the list of teacher gifts for you!

So grab a coffee and sit back and relax while I help you find the perfect gift!

Disclaimer: This blog post, ’55 Best teacher gifts 2023′ contains affiliate links. This means I may receive a small commission on qualifying purchases. This is of no extra cost to you and it helps me to continue writing awesome content for you! Read full disclaimer here.

Teacher gifts on a budget < $10

You don’t have to spend a fortune on teacher gifts. Teachers really do appreciate the thought and love anything with a personal touch.

1. Home Baked treats

Home baked treats are always well received by teachers. Just be careful of allergies!

2. Pot plant or small cactus

So cute and they can choose whether to keep it at school or take it home.

3. Jar of ingredients for making hot chocolate or cookies

These are super easy to put together yourself and if you have multiple teachers or friends to buy for these are also easy to make in bulk. Just purchase some jars from the dollar store and fill with the required ingredients. Add a little ribbon and a personalised tag with what to add (e.g. egg + butter) and you’re ready to go.

4. Desk plant

Desk plants have become quite trendy over the past couple of years and for good reason! Plants are lovely to have in your home or classroom and adding a little message like “thanks for helping me grow” is a sweet touch.

5. Scratchies

If you’re on a budget and want a no prep gift then scratchies are great. You can pick up scratchies for as little as a few dollars and there is always something so fun about scratching a scratchy! Just be prepared that if they win you may not ever have that teacher again!

6. Tie

There are some awesome teacher inspired ties around for less than $10 that are actually really nice. Check out this map of the world tie.

7. Earrings

These back to school inspired earrings are adorable and within budget. Win win!

Teacher gifts on a budget <$20

8. A funny teacher book

I cannot think of a teacher who wouldn’t get a chuckle out of some of the answers in this book ‘F in Exams’. So fun and great value! If your teacher has a good sense of humour (and won’t be offended by the odd swear word) then this colouring book ‘What Teachers Really Want to Say But Can’t’ would be a good choice.

9. Teacher inspired face mask

It seems face masks will be around for a while. These super cute teacher inspired masks at least make wearing one more fun!

10. Lanyard

These lanyards from The teaching tools are less than $20 each and oh so adorable! I have one myself and I love it!

11. Cufflinks

If you have a male teacher to buy for that loves to wear a suit then cufflinks are a great option. There are super fun ones for teachers like these protractor one or these with little crayons.

12. Canvas tote bag

Have you ever watched a teacher walk from their car to their classroom empty handed? I doubt it! Multiple canvas bags are a must have as a teacher so these make the perfect gift.

13. Trendy lunch bag

Teachers often have to eat their lunch out on playground duty or in their classroom. Why not make it a little special with a stylish lunch bag?

14. Fun teaching socks

Novelty teacher socks are great for any teacher. There are so many different designs out there and all within a reasonable budget. Perfect for a secret santa.

15. Fun post it notes

Teachers are forever writing little notes and ideas down when they can. These post it note sets are fun and helpful to have on hand!

</div> </div> </div> </div> </div><div id="personalised" class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_17 et_section_regular" > <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_62"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_69 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_37 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2 style="text-align: center;"><b>Personalised or personal teacher gifts</b></h2> <h4><strong></strong></h4> <h4><strong></strong></h4> <h4><strong></strong></h4> <h4><strong>16. Personalised stamp set </strong></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">How special to get a teacher a </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/187380726/teachers-classroom-personalized-wall?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=classroom+clock+teacher+personalised&ref=sr_gallery-1-41&organic_search_click=1&frs=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">personalised set of stamps</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for their classroom!</span></p> <p> </p> <h4><strong>17. Personalised hand sanitiser pouch</strong></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since the pandemic it has become the norm to always carry hand sanitiser – particularly as a classroom teacher! These little </span><a href="https://tidd.ly/3oE5kf6" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">pouches</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> are so adorable and make it so easy to keep a bottle on hand at all times.</span></p> <p> </p> <h4><strong>18. Personalised jar</strong></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You could fill a </span><a href="https://tidd.ly/3EImCNP" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">beautiful jar </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">with treats, erasers, coffee pods, a small plant, or just keep empty. Super cute and the teacher can repurpose it however they want to.</span></p> <p> </p> <h4><strong>19. Personalised teacher door sign</strong></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Every teacher wants their classroom to be a welcoming place for students. A </span><a href="https://tidd.ly/3lRHAlK" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">personalised door sign</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is a perfect addition. </span></p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_63"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_3 et_pb_column_70 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_code et_pb_code_16 et_pb_text_align_center"> <div class="et_pb_code_inner"><iframe style="width:120px;height:240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=theanimatedte-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B07SZM7SSN&asins=B07SZM7SSN&linkId=edab3ac8a699ebea25474b8534ff6236&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0593b2&bg_color=ffffff">

20. Personalised desk name plate

What teacher would want to spruce up their desk with a personalised name plate?! So adorable and so special.

21. Personalised earrings

I know a few primary school teachers who would rock these personalised teacher earrings.

22. Pencil case

Teachers tend to love their stationary (forgive the generalisation but it’s true!) So this means they also need an equally special case to put all their supplies.

23. Teacher survival kit

This is something you could put together yourself. Just get a cute little bag like this one and fill it with things you think a teacher might need on a daily basis. I would include a small suncream, hand moisturiser, face spritz, hand sanitizer, and chocolate. Or you could fill it with some stationary and some notes of affirmation.

24. Water bottle

It is easy for teachers to forget to stay hydrated throughout the day. Help them out with this drink bottle that helps them keep track of how much water they are drinking.

25. Small crossover bag for playground duty

Often teachers need to eat their lunch while also supervising students on playground duty. This can be difficult to do while also carrying their personal belongings and phone for emergencies. A small crossover bag is the perfect solution!

26. Photo album

Teachers get very attached to their students and, for the most part, they want to remember the students they have taught. A photo album is a thoughtful gift for the teacher to be able to keep a class photo for each class they teach.

27. Personalised lab coat

Have a science teacher to buy for? You can’t go wrong with a personalised lab coat.

28. Leather personalised bookmark

Teachers use bookmarks for so many things. Yes for reading novels, but also for in their teacher planners, diary, textbook, reference book etc. A personalised bookmark is a nice touch.

29. Meaningful framed print

There are some really beautiful framed quotes for teachers available on Etsy or Amazon. A personal favourite is this ‘teacher definition’.

30. Personalised wall clock

A personalised wall clock would be such a lovely addition to any classroom.

31. Personalised tote bag

I mentioned earlier how useful canvas bags are and this one is a perfect size, and personalised!

32. Personalised door mat for the classroom

As I was doing some research I came across this beautiful personalised doormat and now I want one!!!

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Teacher gifts for the classroom

33. Teacher affirmations

Teaching is a hard gig. These affirmation cards will help your teacher start the day on a positive note.

34. Electronics charging station

These days it is normal for a teacher to have multiple devices going at once. A charging station is so practical and helpful to organise all the different devices a teacher may need throughout the day.

35. Desk organiser

A teacher’s desk can very quickly become chaotic. Desk organisers are a practical gift and these days there are some really lovely ones to choose from.

36. ‘To do’ list

Teachers love a good ‘to do’ list! And teachers always have a lot to do! These ‘to do’ lists from Steph Pase Planners are my absolute fave.

37. Pretty notebooks

Teachers can never have too many pretty notebooks. I can never go past Kikki.K.

38. Tea pot and cup in one

It is very often that a teacher makes a cup of tea but then doesn’t get to it until it’s cold. But if they had this lovely tea pot it would at least keep warmer for longer! This one is so cute and it comes in a gift box so you don’t even have to worry about wrapping it!

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39. Teacher stamps

The Teaching Tools have the most thoughtful and beautiful teaching stamps I have ever seen. You can buy a pack or put together your own custom choices.

40. Personalised pens

Teacher stationary can tend to go missing. These engraved pens are beautiful and practical. Get your teachers name or ‘best teacher’ engraved.

41. Print for hanging in the classroom

This ‘teacher definition’ print has such a sweet message.

42. Survival juice coffee cup

It has been well established that coffee is the survival juice of teachers. This lesson planning juice coffee cup is a great size for a decent coffee (or wine!)

43. Facial

Fun fact: I didn’t have wrinkles before I became a teacher. Treat your teacher to a much deserved facial or relaxing massage. They’ve earned it.

44. Board game

I love a good board game and your teacher may actually have time over the break to play one with their family and friends. Here are two fun teacher specific games but honestly any good card game or board game would do the trick.

Subscriptions & vouchers

I personally love subscriptions and vouchers as teacher gifts. I love having choice for what to buy and subscriptions are always fun as they keep on giving!

45. Magazine subscription

There are some fantastic magazine subscriptions out there for all sorts of interests. You could buy a subscription for their own enjoyment or maybe something suitable for the class to use as a resource too. If you’re a student or parent buying for a teacher, just a single copy of a cool magazine would be a great gift!

Here are some of my favourites:

Or for a whole list of different magazine subscription ideas including gardening, knitting etc, click here.

46. Local coffee shop voucher

Definitely a gift that will be used and enjoyed. A caffeinated teacher is a happy teacher!

47. Book subscription

Book of the month sends out fresh titles every month and they have great reviews.

48. Gift an experience

Have a quick search around the local area for ‘one off’ fun classes. Purchasing a voucher for a pottery class, ‘sip and paint’, bowl turning or cooking is a lovely way of giving an experience as a gift.

If you’re in Australia check out Red Balloon.
US check out Great American Days.

49. Kmart or Target voucher

Every teacher, actually… every person loves a good Kmart or Target trip!

50. Etsy or Amazon voucher

Between Etsy and Amazon a teacher can buy just about anything and everything! Both are good choices if you’re not sure what to buy.

51. Teachers Pay Teachers Gift Card

A TPT Gift card may not seem like the sexiest gift to give, but come mid term trust me it will be highly appreciated! What you’re really giving is a teacher some time back to spend with her family and friends rather than being up late lesson planning.

Luxury teacher gifts

If you’re organising a gift from the whole class you may have a slightly bigger budget. Or maybe it is your teacher wife/husband/loved one who you want to splurge on. Either way these are sure to make your teacher feel appreciated!

52. Coffee machine

Its no joke – teachers cannot survive without regular caffeine intake. Its proven. Don’t argue with it. Just get on board with their own coffee machine!

53. Alexa for the classroom

Alexa has so many great uses in the classroom. And did you know, you can get an Alexa smart speaker for less than $60?!

54. Massaging chair pad

It’s not very often that a teacher gets to sit at their desk. If they are lucky enough to sit during lunch then why not also help them work out those knots in their back with a luxurious massaging chair?

55. Cricut – married to a teacher? Get them this!

The Cricut is the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves crafting or organising! This is every organised teacher’s dream machine. I have one and it was possibly the best gift my husband has ever bought me!

Conclusion

Teachers are not that hard to buy for! We love stationary, organisational things, coffee and anything personalised!

You may also like my list of 53 cool science teacher gift ideas!

← How to finish the end of year for teachers 2021: 11 top tips 9 Best TED talks for teachers →

Share the love!

Don’t keep this list to yourself! Share with your friends!

Are you a teacher? Comment below with some of the best teacher gifts you have been given!

Written by Katrina

Katrina Harte is a multi-award winning educator from Sydney, Australia who specialises in creating resources that support teachers and engage students.

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How to finish the end of year for teachers 2021: 11 top tips

by Katrina | Nov 29, 2021 | Teacher Tips & Hacks

How to finish the end of year for teachers 2021: 11 top tips

The end of year for teachers can be a crawl to the end. In this post I am going to give you 11 top tips to finish the end of year strong.

Let’s be honest. For most of us in the teaching profession, 2021 sucked. Global pandemic, school lockdowns, online teaching and mask wearing. The fact that you’re still standing is an achievement in itself.

With only a few weeks left until the end of the year, how can we finish such an abnormal year well?

I’ve compiled this list of practical things you can do to finish the end of year for teachers strong.

you didn't come this far to only come this far

The end of year for teachers: 11 top tips

1. Stay on top of your admin.

When you’re tired and itching for the end of the year to come it can be easy to get slack with admin. But we always pay for this later.

Keep on top of all your normal tasks by keeping to-do lists updated and prioritising tasks that have a deadline.

2. Keep building relationships with your students

While the school year may be wrapping up, it can be a great time to get more of an insight into your students’ lives.

Ask them what their plans are over the holidays or what they might be looking forward to next year.

For some students the holidays may provide more uncertainty for them. It can be helpful for them to know that you care and that you will be there when school returns.

3. Find fun ways for students to revise content

While a lot of teachers hate coming to revision time, I actually love it! There are so many fun things you can do!

Turn task cards into a board game or use no prep digital escape rooms! Quizlets and Kahoots are fun too. Make the most of it and get the students involved.

students in masks - end of year for teachers

4. Be patient with your students

As tired you are, your students probably are too. They have also had a big year of uncertainty and disruption to their learning. Remembering this has helped me to be a little more patient and gracious than I may have been otherwise.

5. Tell your colleagues what you appreciate about them

As everyone is exhausted and is just counting the days, colleagues can become short with each other. Try to be a positive part of their day and tell them something you are thankful for about them.

It could be that you enjoy their sense of humour or that you’re thankful to a colleague for the resources they’ve shared. Make it known to them that you are thankful to work with them. Be specific.

6. Clean your desk

My desk is what some may call ‘organized chaos’. I have piles here and piles there. Yes, I do know where everything is, but yes, it is also considered a mess.

Don’t leave the school year with this year’s mess to come back to. Clean it up now so you have a fresh start on your return.

7. Throw out old resources & papers

Following on from the last point, it’s time for not just a clean, but a declutter. Throw out everything that is not essential to keep for next year. These days with so many of our resources being stored online it is unlikely that you need to keep a heap of papers from different assessment tasks and hard copy rolls on your desk. Therefore, chuck it! Just be sure to dispose of anything containing student information appropriately.

8. Evaluate your programs and assessments

This is probably the very last thing you feel like doing at this time of year. It is definitely not what I feel like doing. But I also know that if I leave it until next year I will forget all the little things I noticed while I was teaching the unit. Therefore, it is worth taking the time to make changes now while it is fresh in your mind.

if not now when? end of year for teachers

9. Grab any resources you want to have with you over the holidays

Look, I could tell you to not take any work home with you over the break. But I’d be a hypocrite because I absolutely will be.

This helps me keep on top of my planning and helps me have a smoother start to the year. Using some of my holiday time to plan gives me time back during term time.

It may be that there are textbooks or resources you need from school in order to plan during the holidays. Grab them now before you forget. It will save you a trip back there during break.

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10. Create a to do list for the beginning of next year

The end of year for teachers can feel like you’ve got a head full of ‘to dos’. If you can brain dump all of the things that are rolling around your head regarding what you need to do to prepare for next year, then it will be easier for you to switch off a bit over the break knowing you have it all written down somewhere.

11. Keep a record of all you have accomplished this year

Sometimes we can get so caught up in the end of the year that we miss the opportunity to reflect on all we have accomplished this year.

I encourage you to write a list of things you have accomplished. Include new skills you’ve developed, new resources you created, what professional development you undertook.

While you’re at it add these to your resume. It is always a good idea to keep a running list of these items and if you leave it too long you are likely to forget a lot of it. 2021 was a hard year and there is no doubt that with online learning you worked hard to develop your skills in new areas.

Conclusion

2021 has been a really hard year. The end of year for teachers can feel like trudging waist deep in snow.

But don’t give up yet! Make the most of the last weeks of school to help you relax during the break and also start 2022 refreshed and prepared. Once you make it through the end of term and into the holiday break make sure you check out my post Teacher recharge ideas: 19 ways to refresh over the holidays.

If you’re feeling like this year might have overcome your passion for teaching then check out my post ‘How to love teaching again’ here.

← How to love teaching again 55 Best Teacher Gifts 2023 →

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The end of year for teachers is hard! Share this post with your teaching buddies and work together to get through the last few weeks of 2021!

Did you find this helpful? Have you got some tips of your own?

Please comment below!

Written by Katrina

Katrina Harte is a multi-award winning educator from Sydney, Australia who specialises in creating resources that support teachers and engage students.

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How to love teaching again

by Katrina | Nov 15, 2021 | Teacher Tips & Hacks

How to love teaching again

Have you lost your spark for teaching? Do you want to love teaching again?

This post is just for you!

Teaching is a hard gig. I don’t know any actual teachers who would argue this point.

I know a lot of teachers who started out in the profession and LOVED it.

But… the endless nights marking, the disrespect from students, and the constantly moving goalposts from administration meant they fell out of love with the profession.

If this resonates with you then you are in the right place!

This was also me. But I have re-found my love for teaching and I am excited to share some of the things I found helpful along the way in the hope that they may also help you re-ignite your love for teaching.

There are many things that are out of our control as teachers. I just wanted to pause here to say that this blog post is not about dwelling on things we cannot control. Rather it is designed to give you real options for finding your way back to the love of teaching you once had.

So grab a coffee and sit back and relax while I give you some strategies to help re-ignite that flame!

If you are reading this then I know two things about you:

1. Firstly, you have lost the spark you once had for teaching.

Probably not because of the actual teaching, but because of all the other things I mentioned earlier. You’re exhausted. You are not sure this is sustainable anymore. You’re no longer sure that this is the profession for you.

I’ve been here too. Actually, I’ve been here multiple times.

2. Secondly, and more importantly, you are not ready to give up! You want to love teaching again!

The fact you are reading this blog means you are not ready to let go of the profession you once loved. Good on you! You are amazing. Even in the thick of it all you are looking for a solution!

So, how do you reignite the teaching spark?

Firstly, rediscover your ‘why’.

Take a moment to think about what got you excited to teach in the first place.

What was it that you loved about the idea of teaching?

For me, it was that feeling that I had really helped someone else. Sounds selfish when I say it like that. That I only liked teaching because it made ME feel good about helping others. But do you know what? I truly believe we have been made to get that feeling when we help others. It is what makes us human. It is THAT feeling that keeps me going back. That feeling that I am making a difference in the lives of others.

Rediscover your ‘why’ again.

That part is easy. But what happens when that feeling goes away? Or what if your original ‘why’ is no longer relevant?

I have been teaching for over 10 years and there have been many times that the spark I had when I started, was diminished. And if I’m honest, its not the teaching part I fall out of love with. It’s everything else. The office politics. The staff room gossip. The forever increasing administration. The constantly moving goalposts set from those who have been out of the classroom too long.

So how do you get it back? What can you do?

Appreciate the edu-book is a crowded market, but there is definitely room for a book on how knackered teachers can cope. 'Teach like you're shattered', 'Tired Teaching', 'Making Every Lesson Exhausted', 'The Sleep Rainforest.'
— Jamie Thom (@teachgratitude1) November 8, 2021

6 ways to love teaching again

Here are my 6 C’s for how to love teaching again (and stay in love with teaching):

1. How to love teaching again: Create

Create something.

Being creative is good for the soul and can help you be excited about something you are in control of.

There are so many things that are out of your control as a teacher. Take ownership over the things you can control and find joy in completing a project of your own.

Therefore, create a new resource, a new classroom display, a new way of assessing, a new program. Create something that you are proud of.

2. How to love teaching again: Connect

Connect with other teachers who love what they do.

A big part of keeping your own flame burning is being a part of a team. Knowing you’re not in it alone and also being with like-minded people who are on the same path as you, or who have been on that path before. Seeing passion and love for the profession bursting from others can help fan the flame for you too.

We are so blessed to be able to have so many ways we can connect with other teachers. Whether it be through professional network systems, Facebook groups, LinkedIn, conferences or webinars.

3. How to love teaching again: Contribute

Contribute to others in the profession.

Contributing to others in the profession may help you find purpose and excitement again.

While your students and perhaps even your current staff team may not be appreciative of your efforts, there are so many teachers out there craving your experience and ideas. By sharing with them you may find a new purpose in your career and reignite that passion for education.

Where can you go to contribute?

At school!

You can start by contributing to your staff team. Share your resources with them. Spark conversations about pedagogy in the staff room.

Professional networks

There are many networks out there that have opportunities for teachers to contribute whether it be by presenting at a conference, presenting a webinar, participating in an online forum or discussion. Start small and build up!

Facebook groups

There are so many active facebook groups dedicated to teachers. There are lots of ways to engage with these:
- Engage by creating your own post in a group to spark discussion.
- Reply to someone else’s post.
- Reply to someone else’s comment on a post.
- Share one of your resources with the group
- Ask the group for their ideas for a lesson / problem etc.

4. How to love teaching again: Conference

Attend a conference.

Conferences have a way of providing new ideas and atmosphere that get teachers buzzing with excitement.

If you have the opportunity to attend a conference with a like-minded teaching friend then your ‘buzz’ could be tenfold. Having someone to talk about what you learnt with and discuss the new concepts and how you could apply them to your context is priceless. This also allows for the excitement of the conference to last longer as you return to school together and implement those new ideas.

If you can’t get to a conference then I highly recommend watching some TED talks. Here are my top 9 TED talks for teachers which will make you laugh, challenge your thinking and inspire you.

Want to get your life back?

Teaching can take over more of your life than you want it to. For longevity as a teacher it is important to find a work/life balance that works for you and your family.

Enter your email and I'll send you my top 7 tips for reclaiming your life back as a teacher!

5. How to love teaching again: Communicate

Communicate with your administration, colleagues, family and students.

With your administration / leadership team

Have you tried to communicate your feelings or frustrations with your team leader or administration staff?

While it can feel hard to approach them with your thoughts, it is worth trying to communicate with them to find some sort of solution.

Depending on the reason you feel you have fallen out of love with teaching, it could be that small changes from your leadership or administration staff could make a difference. Even just setting out to have this conversation could help you pinpoint the exact issues that you feel are weighing you down.

With your colleagues

You may not be the only one feeling this way. Sharing your feelings with your colleagues could help you find someone who is also seeking to re-ignite their passion for teaching.

Setting out on the path to love teaching again with a colleague could give you both accountability and someone to bounce ideas off.

With your family

Your family may have already picked up on the fact that you are falling out of love with your profession. But it could be worth talking through some solutions with them. They may have some helpful insight into what may help you move forward. Whether it be setting some boundaries regarding bringing work home, helping you to use weekends for your own mental health, or just reminding you what you used to love about teaching.

With your students

If you follow me on Instagram you will have heard me harp on about building relationships with your students. Why? Because the more time you spend with them, the more you will enjoy spending time with them. They have personality and a sense of humour. They are fun!

Building positive connections with your students may remind you why you used to enjoy teaching.

6. How to love teaching again: Change

Change your position, school or (last resort) career.

Are you in a position to change your role or loading? Could you chat with your principal about changing your grade level, subject area, classroom, or how many days you work? Is there an opportunity to apply for a promotion or take on a leadership role?

They say change is as good as a holiday!

What if none of these changes are available to you?

Maybe it’s time you had a bigger change of scenery. Maybe it is time for you to apply for jobs in other schools, districts etc. It could be that you have lost your spark because you’ve outgrown your current school and need a different kind of challenge. When I was feeling super flat after a few years at my first school it really helped changing to another. It gave me a new sense of purpose, new challenges and different people to connect with.

If you are currently at the point where you are thinking you need a complete career change then I do believe it is worth trying a school change first. What have you got to lose?

What if I just can’t do it anymore?

I do want to add here that if you are reading this blog post then I feel you are really wanting to stay in the teaching profession. But I also want to add that you shouldn’t feel obliged to. It might be time for you to chase a different dream, and that is ok!

Conclusion

Teaching is a hard gig. It’s important you don’t try to push through it alone.

Create, connect, contribute, conference, communicate and change to reignite that spark.

Let me know in the comments below if you try any of these! I’d love to hear your stories and if any of these suggestions helped! Alternatively, please send me an email to connect here.

← 53 EASY Differentiation Strategies for Your Classroom How to finish the end of year for teachers 2021: 11 top tips →

Share the love!

Share this post with others who may be struggling to love teaching at the moment.

Did you find this helpful? Have you got some tips of your own on how to love teaching again?

Please comment below!

Written by Katrina

Katrina Harte is a multi-award winning educator from Sydney, Australia who specialises in creating resources that support teachers and engage students.

Want to get your life back?

Teaching can take over more of your life than you want it to. For longevity as a teacher it is important to find a work/life balance that works for you and your family.

Enter your email and I'll send you my top 7 tips for reclaiming your life back as a teacher!

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Best teacher recharge ideas: 19 ways to refresh in the holidays

Teacher Recharge Ideas

1. Hang out with people who give you back energy

2. Organise a section of your home

3. Pack up your Christmas tree

4. Organise a night out with a group

5. Read a fictional book

6. Spend time on a hobby

7. Try something new

8. Enjoy a coffee – while it is still hot!

9. Take a nap

10. Schedule some screen free time

11. Put your feet in the ocean (or any water!)

12.Cook

13. Binge watch a TV show

14. Stay in pjs till after lunch

15. Get outside

16. Turn off the alarm!

Want to get your life back?

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17. Listen to some podcasts

18. Indulge in some skin care

19. Don’t wear makeup

Conclusion

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9 Best TED talks for teachers

Best TED talks for teachers

1. Do schools kill creativity? Sir Ken Robinson

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3. Teach teachers how to create magic: Christopher Emdin

4. How to Make Stress Your Friend: Kelly McGonigal

5. Bring on the learning revolution: Sir Ken Robinson

6. The child-driven education: Sugata Mitra

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7. Creative ways to get kids to engage: Olympia Della Flora

8. How we can help the forgotten middle reach their full potential: Danielle R. Moss

9. 3 rules to spark learning: Ramsey Musallam

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55 Best Teacher Gifts 2023

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Teacher gifts on a budget < $10

1. Home Baked treats

2. Pot plant or small cactus

3. Jar of ingredients for making hot chocolate or cookies

4. Desk plant

5. Scratchies

6. Tie

7. Earrings

Teacher gifts on a budget <$20

8. A funny teacher book

9. Teacher inspired face mask

10. Lanyard

11. Cufflinks

12. Canvas tote bag

13. Trendy lunch bag

14. Fun teaching socks

15. Fun post it notes

20. Personalised desk name plate

21. Personalised earrings

22. Pencil case

23. Teacher survival kit

24. Water bottle

25. Small crossover bag for playground duty

26. Photo album

27. Personalised lab coat

28. Leather personalised bookmark

29. Meaningful framed print

30. Personalised wall clock

31. Personalised tote bag

32. Personalised door mat for the classroom

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Teacher gifts for the classroom

33. Teacher affirmations

34. Electronics charging station

35. Desk organiser

36. ‘To do’ list