Before we know it, it’s time to go back to school! Whether you have been teaching for two years or twenty, you’ll appreciate these helpful hints for ensuring that the new school term gets off to a smooth start. Positive notes for a New Term:
Give a warm welcome
Staff, parents and learners all need a positive start to the term. Set a good tone for the school term by sending out a welcome letter, letting people know about exciting plans for the months ahead. Especially at the first assembly of the year, it’s important to outline goals, and motivate and encouraging everyone to give of their all. Share some of your expectations in terms of respect, effort, and behaviour.
Put minds at ease
Make a concerted effort to meet new parents and learners in person – they are likely feeling anxious and may feel reassured after asking you the questions they have about life at their new school. Aside from school procedures and logistics, be sure to ask new parents and learners about their personal interests and aspirations, and share some of your own personal information. Building a good rapport from the beginning means that you will get the new relationship off to a good start.
Set goals with staff
Ask your colleagues about their goals for the term and how they plan on achieving them. Perhaps they have some good ideas for improving discipline or motivating learners, or keeping them interested in class? Sharing these ideas with each other is helpful and encourages cooperation among staff.
Keep an eye on problem areas
With back-to-school excitement high and the lack of holiday routine still in their systems, some areas of the school may require special attention for the first week or so. Organise extra supervision for the playground and hallways to keep learners safe and under control.
At the start of the school year, it can be tempting to hide away in the staff room or your office. But it’s important for teachers and heads to be visible and present, especially after the holidays. Greet, wander around the halls and playground, poke your head in on classes. Even though you may be swamped with preparation and planning, you need to show that you care about the community and your learners – if they don’t see you, they won’t get this message.
Keep a list
As you go about the first few days back at school, you are likely to spot things that need your attention. Jot them down as you go so that your good ideas aren’t forgotten in the hustle and bustle.
The first week of school can be a stressful time, but with proper planning and a positive attitude, you can get the new school term off to a promising start for staff, parents and learners alike.