Picture the first day back at school to start a new year. There's excitement in the air. The teachers are excited. Why? Because they are about to begin a new year of discovery, achievement, targets, goal setting, professional development and fulfilment. The kids are excited. Why? Because they have new pencils...........
Who wins? The kids of course. I mean, new pencils - come on! Add to that the new uniform, new classroom, new school bag, maybe even a new haircut!
So maybe we should take a leaf out of the children's books and inject a bit of wide eyed enthusiasm into our first week back at school. Here are 9 simple tips for adding that extra spring in your step for day one, week one:
1. Rearrange your desk and/or your office (if you are lucky enough to have one). Make it feel like a new workspace by moving your computer monitor to a new position, or shifting the bookshelf to another wall. It's also a good opportunity to dig through those old files and books you've been hanging onto. Clear out the obsolete and make space for the new resources that you will discover, or just de-clutter the view for when you are pondering your next lesson.
2. Replace those old posters with something new. While your 'renovating' your workspace, put up images or words of inspiration that catch your eye every time you enter. It's like a fresh coat of paint.
3. Treat yourself to a new set of clothes. Is it time to upgrade those sports shoes? What about a new hat, drink bottle, whistle and lanyard? And most definitely arrive on day one with your feet inside a brand new pair of socks! You will certainly feel like a new person.
4. Create a new playlist on your iPod/iPhone or whatever device you use. Do you sometimes play music during lessons and activities? Have a playlist of current songs that don't contain explicit lyrics or themes just for the kids to work to. You don't want to still be listening to those tired old songs. Update the playlist for a fresh sound that you and the kids will enjoy.
5. Try a new screen saver on all your devices. Something that gives you a lift every time you open your iPad or sit at your desk. It could be a motivational quote - your mission statement for the year (find some here), or maybe a funny picture that reminds you of a special person, place or time. And while we're at it, what about a new ringtone or message alert sound? If you use your devices as much as I do, it's nice to freshen them up once in a while.
6. Order new equipment in time to have it ready for use on day one. Children love new toys, so indulge your inner child and make sure your new equipment is ready to go when they are.
7. Use new equipment you haven't used before. Try something new, even if it is just for an ice-breaker activity or a warm-up. You will find this stimulating for both you and the students. Watch the ideas snowball once you see what the students come up with when asked to 'explore' their new items.
8. Buy new stationary for your desk. You deserve new pencils too! Include in this a new and unused notepad and sticky notes. It's a simple idea but one that will make desk work a little more exciting (if that's possible!)
9. Rewrite the signature at the bottom of your emails. Try a new colour and font, and while you're at it, how about a message, motto or personal mission statement about your teaching. Simple. Effective.
So there are just a few simple ways of making your return to work even more enjoyable. Keep it fresh. You're already filled with excitement and motivated to have your best year yet, but the ideas above will just add a little sparkle to those first few weeks.
It's exciting when the Christmas tree comes out each year, but you need the decorations too, right?
