Are you about to embark on your first year as a teacher? Whether you’re fresh out of teacher training or transitioning into the UK’s education system, the journey ahead is both exciting and daunting. Many early career teachers (ECTs) find themselves filled with nerves and questions about what life in the classroom will truly be like. The early career framework provides a significant support structure for new teachers, helping them manage their workload and enhance their wellbeing. To help you navigate this new chapter, we’ve compiled our top 5 tips to survive your first year in teaching—without a mentor!
1. Prioritize Preparation and Stay on Top of Marking for Early Career Teachers
Preparation is crucial for delivering effective lessons and managing your time. A well-prepared lesson plan provides structure, yet leaves room for spontaneity and student engagement. Early career teachers learning practical strategies and accessing resources can significantly benefit from guidance on these aspects. While it’s important not to overprepare, ensuring you have a clear roadmap for each lesson is key. Equally important is keeping up with your marking. Falling behind can lead to unnecessary stress, so develop a system that works for you. Don’t forget to report any concerns or issues to other staff members in line with school policy—this will save you time and maintain good communication.
2. Remember: You’re Not Alone – Insights from Education Writer Sue Cowley
Every teacher, from the most seasoned to the newly qualified, has been in your shoes. You’re not the first new teacher, and you won’t be the last. Don’t hesitate to seek advice or support from your colleagues—whether it’s for behavior management, lesson planning, or navigating the current education inspection framework. Experienced teachers and senior leaders are invaluable resources, offering insights that can help you grow. Confidence is important, but so is being open to learning from those around you. Additionally, seeking teacher wellbeing tips can be crucial for managing your workload and thriving in your early career.
3. Set Clear Boundaries
Establishing clear rules and boundaries is essential, especially during your first year. These should align with the school’s policies and the national curriculum, but they should also reflect your own principles. Your classroom management style will naturally differ from that of your colleagues, and that’s okay. Over time, your students and colleagues will come to understand and respect your approach. Maintaining consistency with your boundaries will help you effectively manage your classroom, making your teaching journey smoother.
4. Stay Connected to Your ‘Why’
It’s easy to get lost in the day-to-day demands of teaching, but don’t forget why you chose this profession. Most teachers didn’t enter the field for the salary or the long breaks; they were driven by a passion for education and a desire to make a difference in young people’s lives. Whether you’re a primary school teacher or working with older students, keeping your passion at the forefront will help you navigate the inevitable ups and downs of your first year. Take inspiration from education writer Sue Cowley’s down-to-earth style—her bestselling guides offer practical advice to help you stay grounded and focused.
5. Maintain a Healthy Work-Life Balance with Teacher Wellbeing Tips
In your eagerness to prove yourself, it’s easy to overcommit, whether that’s taking on extracurricular activities or volunteering for school events. While demonstrating your dedication is important, it’s equally crucial to avoid burnout. Teacher wellbeing is a hot topic for a reason—striking a balance between work and personal life is key to long-term success in this notoriously difficult profession. Managing your workload and wellbeing is essential for a sustainable teaching career. Take care of your health, manage your time wisely, and make sure you have moments away from the classroom to recharge.
For more insightful advice on how to survive your first year in teaching, including time-saving lesson plans and tips for your first parents’ evening, explore our series of blogs. There are plenty of resources available to help you on your journey, from introspective toolkits to the latest editions of Sue Cowley’s practical new chapters on teaching.
