Get ahead for next term

It’s the end of term and I don’t know about you but I am exhausted. As teachers our to-do list feels never-ending. And all we want to do is shut my laptop and not think about school for two weeks.

But before you switch off completely, there’s one small gift you can give yourself: preparing for the start of next term.

It doesn’t have to be perfect. It doesn’t have to be finished. But getting organised just enough before you head into your break will save you a world of stress later.

Here are a few practical ways to set up next term while your head’s still (mostly) in the game.

Finish Your Marking (Yes, All of It)
Nothing weighs on your mind over the holidays like unfinished marking, because procrastination kicks in and you’ll leave it to the last minute. Even if you have to pace yourself over a few days, try to get everything marked and entered, draft any feedback you need, and clear the pile off your desk. It’s one of the biggest mental loads you can lift before the break starts.

Refresh Your Units and Assessments
Chances are, you already have your units and assessment tasks ready to go. That doesn’t mean you won’t need to tweak them. Check that your resources are still up to date, see if anything needs reprinting or re-uploading, and make any adjustments you planned after teaching them last time. A quick refresh now means you won’t be scrambling in Week 1.

Draft a Simple Term Overview
Even if you’ve taught the same units before, it helps to sketch out what’s happening mapped against your classes. Note the key weeks for major content, when assessments will land, and any special events, excursions or interruptions that could affect your plans.

Plan the First Two Weeks in Detail
The first fortnight sets the tone. Think about how you’ll re-establish expectations and routines, and map out clear lesson sequences for those first two weeks. Have any resources ready to go and any differentiation planned. Ideally have your photocopying done as well. Coming back to a fortnight already prepared is one of the best gifts you can give yourself.

Reflect While It’s Fresh
While the term is still clear in your mind, jot down what worked well, what fell flat, and anything you’d like to do differently next time. Note any student needs or adjustments to plan for. Your future self will thank you for not relying on memory alone.

Set Boundaries for Your Break
Once you’ve ticked off your essentials, close your planner, delete any school apps, and give yourself permission to rest. You’ve earned it.

When you return next term, consider signing up to our waitlist at https://planuva.com