Are you a countdown teacher?

We all do it: as soon as we step back in the door after a holiday, we're counting down to the next. 

And it's tough: we know we have up to eight weeks of non-stop lessons, marking, admin and the unexpected heading our way. It's normal to be a little wanting of the rest when you know you won't see a clear evening for weeks! 

So my question is, what do we do to combat this? Every teacher will have something, and we'd love to hear your countdown combatants, but here are ours in the mean-time...

1) Full day? Plan at least one 'rest lesson' for yourself - personal reading, timed essay question practice, group work or preparing presentations - they all work in giving you a little time to repose and recollect before beginning again! 

2) Plan the event of the half term - for me, it was the BBC Live Lesson launching the 500 words competition in school, and it was so much fun to enjoy it. Have something to look forward to at work! 

3) Have a chat! Whether you take five to talk to the kids or make a point of having some staff-room time, make sure you talk and don't just teach. 

4) TEA. It's vital, and needs no explanation. 

5) Stick the radio on. It sounds daft, but I love having something a bit upbeat on in my free lessons or at lunchtime to stop things becoming monotonous. 


What are your countdown busting tips? Do get in touch and share!