Blog
Practical guidance and insights for education professionals
September 8, 2025 - Your Fresh Start; how to recharge and reset for the new term
The alarm goes off on that first Monday morning, and suddenly summer feels like a distant memory. Whether this is your first September as a qualified teacher or you're returning after a well-deserved break, the feeling is the same: a mixture of excitement, nervousness and that familiar flutter of "here we go again."
But here's what I want you to remember as you step back into your classroom: September isn't just about picking up where you left off. It's your opportunity for a complete fresh start.
July 26, 2025 - The August Reality Check every new teacher needs
It's normal to feel terrified. Here's why that's actually a good sign.
It's 2am, and you're lying awake thinking about September. Your mind is racing: What if the pupils don't listen to me? What if I can't control the class? What if I'm terrible at this and everyone realises I don't know what I'm doing?
If this sounds familiar, take a deep breath....
July 20, 2025 - Why Your Summer Rest Isn't Selfish - It's Essential. The case for guilt-free recuperation before September
It's only the start of the summer holidays, and already the guilt is creeping in. You see colleagues posting photos of beautifully organised classrooms, sharing Pinterest-worthy display ideas, and discussing their detailed September plans. Meanwhile, you're still in your pyjamas at 11am, watching Netflix, and the thought of opening your laptop makes you feel slightly sick.
Let me tell you something that might surprise you: you're doing exactly what you should be doing.
July 11, 2025 - Top Tips for ECTs Starting Their First Job in September; Your summer preparation guide for a confident start
The summer holidays before your first teaching job can feel like a strange mix of excitement and anxiety. Part of you wants to plan everything down to the last detail, while another part just wants to enjoy your final weeks of freedom before the whirlwind begins.
After supporting many newly qualified teachers through their first years, I've learned that the secret isn't preparing for everything – it's preparing for the right things. Here's your practical guide...
July 5, 2025 - 5 Warning Signs You're Heading for Teacher Burnout (And What to Do About Them)
Last week, Sarah contacted me as her previous mentor. Three weeks away from the end of her second term, she was already working until 9pm every night, checking emails at weekends and lying awake worrying about lesson plans. "I love the children," she said, "but I don't think I can keep this up."
Sarah isn't unusual. As a former headteacher, I've seen brilliant teachers hit the burnout wall within months of starting their careers. The tragedy? Most of these warning signs are completely preventable when you know what to look for....
June 28, 2025 - The Hidden Crisis: Why 77% of Teachers Are Struggling with Their Mental Health
The latest research from Education Support reveals something truly alarming: 77% of education staff are experiencing symptoms of poor mental health due to work.
Let that sink in. In a room of 10 teachers, nearly 8 are struggling with their wellbeing because of their job. This isn't just about feeling a bit tired after a long day – this is about a profession in crisis....