Teacher Essentials
As the new school term approaches, it's an ideal time to get ready for the upcoming academic year. Whether you're new to teaching or have years of experience, it's natural to wonder about the essential items you'll need. If you're unsure, we've got you covered! Our checklist below includes recommendations from teachers who have shared the must-have items that have proven invaluable in their classrooms.
Table of Contents:
- What Classroom Supplies Do I Need?
- What Planning Resources Do I Need?
- What Can Help Me During The First Term?
What Classroom Supplies Do I Need?
Your school will most likely supply the basic essentials and may also give students a list of items they need to bring themselves. However, not every student will come equipped with all the necessary supplies, so teachers need to be prepared for such situations. Ensure you know what your school will provide before spending any of your own money!
Basic stationery and classroom supplies
A well-stocked classroom is fundamental for smooth day-to-day operation. Essential stationery includes:
✅ Pens and pencils✅ Rulers
✅ Rubbers
✅ Sharpeners
✅ Coloured pencils and felt tips pens
✅ Whiteboard pens
✅ Scissors
✅ Glue sticks
✅ Paper clips
✅ Blu-tack
✅ Staples and stapler
✅ Tissues
✅ Wet wipes
✅ Timer
✅ Whistle
Organisational tools
Keeping the classroom organised helps in maintaining an effective learning environment. Consider having:
- Folders and Drawers: For organising lesson plans, student work and administrative paperwork.
- Bins and Shelves: To keep materials easily accessible and tidy.
- Labelled Items: For organisation and to aid quick identification of where items are kept.
In most UK schools, particularly primary schools, teachers are typically assigned their own classroom. This allows you to decorate the space to your liking, often using students' work or relevant displays to engage learners during transitions. A large digital timer can help students stay on task by clearly showing how much time they have left for an activity. Having tissues on hand is essential for cleaning up spills or comforting upset students. Additionally, a selection of engaging reading books is invaluable, especially for Early Years teachers, as it helps foster a love for reading and keeps students interested.
What Planning Resources Do I Need?
Effective planning is the cornerstone of successful teaching. It's essential to ensure that lessons are well-structured, learning goals and intentions are clear and students are engaged. Here are some indispensable planning resources:
In addition to lesson plans, you'll also want to have knowledge organisers, video content and worksheets to hand, especially when looking to move children's learning forward in the moment.
What Can Help Me During The First Term?
The first term of the school year can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you are a new teacher or returning for another year, certain strategies and tools can help you navigate this crucial period. Here’s a guide to what can support you during the first term.
Set Up Your Classroom Early
Arrive at school well before the first day to set up your classroom. This includes arranging desks, organising supplies and setting up any display boards. Also, ensure you:
- Decide on a seating arrangement that supports your teaching style and classroom management.
- Label shelves, drawers and supplies to help students (and yourself) keep everything organised.
Maintaining your wellbeing is crucial, especially during the first term.
As the weather begins to change, the darker evenings draw in and the colder months follow, it's essential to look after your own wellbeing as a priority during the autumn term. Try to find time to:
- Incorporate physical activity into your routine to reduce stress and boost energy.
- Practice mindfulness or meditation to stay focused and calm.
- Ensure you are eating nutritious meals to keep your energy levels up.
Get September Ready with Pango
Join Pango today and enjoy a 7-day free trial! With schemes of work covering over 9 subject areas, detailed and ready-to-go lesson plans, accompanying resources, worksheets, assessments, videos and knowledge organisers, let us help you save time while maintaining the quality your students deserve.
We also have further information in our accompanying blogs to support you in getting ready for September:
