Starting your first teaching role is an exciting yet challenging experience. At My Teacher Says, we understand that your probation year can be a daunting time. To help you navigate this important year, we’ve put together a list of our top tips to ensure you not only survive but thrive in your new role. Remember, your well-being is just as important as your professional development!
1. Prioritise Planning
Effective planning can significantly reduce the stress of teaching. Aim to plan your lessons at least a week in advance, allowing you to prepare resources and avoid last-minute scrambling. With a clear plan in place, you can focus on delivering engaging lessons rather than dealing with daily uncertainties. Additionally, make use of any time outside the classroom by creating to-do lists to stay organised and productive.
2. Cultivate Flexibility
Even the best plans can go awry. Lessons might not go as expected, or tasks may take less time than you anticipated. It’s essential to remain flexible and adaptable. Keep some extension activities handy for when you need to fill time, and don’t hesitate to shift gears if a lesson isn’t resonating with your pupils. Embracing flexibility will help you handle the unpredictable nature of the classroom with confidence.
3. Know Your Learners
Your pupils are at the heart of your teaching practice. Take the time to understand their unique needs, interests, and learning styles. This will allow you to support their growth more effectively. Building strong relationships with your class not only helps you tailor your teaching but also fosters a positive and connected classroom environment. Share a bit about yourself too—it can create common ground and strengthen your rapport with your class.
4. Build Relationships with Colleagues
Your colleagues are a valuable resource as you navigate your first year of teaching, especially your mentor. Developing strong working relationships with your fellow staff members can provide much-needed support and guidance. Whether through casual chats in the staff room or more formal collaborative planning sessions, connecting with your peers will help you feel more integrated and supported. Don’t hesitate to seek advice from more experienced colleagues—they’re often more than happy to help.
5. Observe and Learn from Others
Watching other teachers in action can be incredibly insightful, especially in areas where you feel less confident. Observing how experienced teachers manage their classrooms, engage pupils, and deliver lessons can offer new strategies and inspiration for your own teaching. Don’t be afraid to ask questions afterward—most teachers are willing to share their knowledge and experiences with you.
6. Learn from Mistakes
Mistakes are an inevitable part of any learning process, and teaching is no exception. It’s important to accept that you will make errors along the way, but the key is to learn from them. Reflect on what went wrong and think about how you can improve. Adopting a growth mindset—seeing mistakes as opportunities for development—will help you grow as a teacher and model resilience for your pupils.
7. Take Care of Yourself
Teaching can be all-consuming, especially during your probation year. It’s vital to prioritise your own well-being amidst your professional duties. Make sure to schedule time for self-care, whether that involves exercising, engaging in hobbies, or simply unwinding. Eating well and staying hydrated are also crucial for maintaining your energy and focus. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup—looking after yourself will make you a more effective and happier teacher.
8. Enjoy the Journey
Lastly, don’t forget to have fun! Your probation year is the perfect time to experiment with different teaching techniques and discover what works best for you. Let your personality shine through in your teaching, and enjoy building relationships with your class. By embracing the experience with a sense of curiosity and joy, you’ll create a positive learning environment that benefits both you and your learners.
Your probation year is a unique opportunity to lay the foundations for a successful teaching career. By prioritising planning, staying adaptable, focusing on your pupils, and looking after your own well-being, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a confident and capable teacher. Embrace the challenges, learn from your experiences, and most importantly, enjoy this exciting time in your professional journey!
