Teacher training is hard. It’s busy, it’s tiring, but it’s also one of the most rewarding things you can ever do. However, as well as looking after the children in your class, one essential aspect of the year is learning how to look after yourself. So, here are my top five tips to look after your own wellbeing during your training year…
It’s easy to look at how much work you have to do and feel guilty for taking time out. That’s why I put aside some time each week which is for me. This is non-negotiable. Even if I have mountains of lesson planning and work to do, I still take that time. Always. It makes me happier, more relaxed, and overall, a better teacher for the children.
I used to be somebody who never really had hobbies. However, since starting the SCITT, I can honestly say that having a hobby that I love to focus on outside of the classroom has helped me to manage my stress levels and not get burnt out. So, find something that you enjoy, helps you to relax, and makes you happy. Then make sure you make time for it.
I know that a lot of other students at the SCITT like to go home and do their lesson planning and reading in the evenings. This is not for me. I quickly figured out that I’m an early bird, and I like getting to the SCITT, or to my placement school, really early so that I can have an hour or so to do some work. I know that this wouldn’t work for a lot of people, but it works for me. So that’s what I do. Everybody has different ways of working, and you should do whatever you find the easiest.
It’s really easy to hear about other people’s experiences and successes on placement and instantly start to worry that you’re not doing well enough. The training year is hard enough without constantly comparing yourself to others, and it’s important to remember that everybody has come from different walks of life with different experiences and strengths. It’s great to share about all of the positive things you’ve done in the week with your friends, but remember that everybody has negatives as well, and we are all on our own path. If your mentors say you are doing just fine, then trust them! You are doing just fine!
This last one might seem obvious, but it’s actually really hard to reach out for help. It’s important to remember that no issue is ever too big or too small, and the SCITT team and your mentors are always there to help. A problem shared is a problem halved, and I’ve found that just saying the words ‘I’ve found this hard,’ out loud can make it feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders.
My key takeaway is this: the training year is busy, but make your own wellbeing a priority. This is often easier said than done, but there is so much help and support available from the SCITT, so never be afraid to ask!
Ready to take the next step? Apply now and start your journey towards becoming the teacher you’re meant to be.
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