You could be feeling very nervous and excited on that first day - it can actually establish the tone for the entire year ahead.
So here's your friendly guide about how to make it work to your advantage.
Get to school early. This time, just before the pupils arrive, is a golden opportunity to put the finishing touches on your classroom, to glance over your plans quickly, and to get set for the day. That buffer can help you feel less frazzled and more in control.
You're also going to be meeting a lot of your other colleagues on your first day. These encounters are crucial because you will pick up advice, support and friendliness: do talk to them, ask questions, or ask for guidance; they have all been where you are at this point.
When the bell rings and pupils start coming into class, greet them with a smile. This sets the first impression of your classroom. Be warm and friendly; it helps learners feel relaxed and comfortable, therefore making a positive impact.
Your first lesson is an important one – a time to lay down classroom rules and expectations. Begin with an enjoyable and engaging activity to catch the pupils' interest. Tell them something about yourself – you don't have to tell them everything – just a small icebreaker so the pupils can get to know you – and each other.
Classroom management is one of those big concerns for many new teachers. Lay on the rules and routines from the start. Be fair and consistent. Stay calm and patient when the unexpected little hiccups occur. Nip small issues in the bud so they don't escalate.
The day might seem too weighty for you at first, and you will have to let go at your lunch and rest breaks. Relax and recharge. Feel free to talk to other teachers. They can sometimes offer you a breather and a new perspective to consider what went right and wrong.
The afternoon can be a drag if the new routine is still being internalised. It's a good idea to maintain a high energy level and focus. For example, pupils can be involved in different activities, as this is a balance of teaching and managing the class.
Let them conclude their learning as the day concludes. You can get them to do some assignment for simple routine chores at home or let them narrate to you the best part of what they have enjoyed.
Pause at the end of your first day for just a minute. When your students have left for the day, reflect. How did you do? What might you do differently next time? Part of growing is thinking about your experience – don’t be too hard on yourself, though; teaching is a journey, and even great teachers have hard days.
Some lessons you'll learn on your first day:
1. Flexibility
You might like planning things to the last detail, but not everything turns out as expected. A good teacher should always be open-minded and ready to accept change.
2. Patience
Everybody is different. What works for one pupil may not work for another. The key is patience.
3. Building Relationships
Building positive relationships with pupils helps to look after the classroom and makes learning fun.
4. Self-Care
Teaching is demanding so remember to look after yourself to remain effective in the classroom
That first day of teaching can be extremely difficult but, at the same time, so rewarding. It's another one of those first days: first hellos, first lessons, first of many to really develop your classroom community. You will, as you journey through, grow with your pupils. You learn from every experience to become a better teacher each day.
Teaching in school is more about inspiring somebody than actually imparting information. The very first day will show you the difference you can make in life, and you'll just be so thankful to have the opportunity to make a difference in your pupils' lives.
You could be feeling very nervous and excited on that first day - it can actually establish the tone for the entire year ahead.
So here's your friendly guide about how to make it work to your advantage.
Get to school early. This time, just before the pupils arrive, is a golden opportunity to put the finishing touches on your classroom, to glance over your plans quickly, and to get set for the day. That buffer can help you feel less frazzled and more in control.
You're also going to be meeting a lot of your other colleagues on your first day. These encounters are crucial because you will pick up advice, support and friendliness: do talk to them, ask questions, or ask for guidance; they have all been where you are at this point.
When the bell rings and pupils start coming into class, greet them with a smile. This sets the first impression of your classroom. Be warm and friendly; it helps learners feel relaxed and comfortable, therefore making a positive impact.
Your first lesson is an important one – a time to lay down classroom rules and expectations. Begin with an enjoyable and engaging activity to catch the pupils' interest. Tell them something about yourself – you don't have to tell them everything – just a small icebreaker so the pupils can get to know you – and each other.
Classroom management is one of those big concerns for many new teachers. Lay on the rules and routines from the start. Be fair and consistent. Stay calm and patient when the unexpected little hiccups occur. Nip small issues in the bud so they don't escalate.
The day might seem too weighty for you at first, and you will have to let go at your lunch and rest breaks. Relax and recharge. Feel free to talk to other teachers. They can sometimes offer you a breather and a new perspective to consider what went right and wrong.
The afternoon can be a drag if the new routine is still being internalised. It's a good idea to maintain a high energy level and focus. For example, pupils can be involved in different activities, as this is a balance of teaching and managing the class.
Let them conclude their learning as the day concludes. You can get them to do some assignment for simple routine chores at home or let them narrate to you the best part of what they have enjoyed.
Pause at the end of your first day for just a minute. When your students have left for the day, reflect. How did you do? What might you do differently next time? Part of growing is thinking about your experience – don’t be too hard on yourself, though; teaching is a journey, and even great teachers have hard days.
Some lessons you'll learn on your first day:
1. Flexibility
You might like planning things to the last detail, but not everything turns out as expected. A good teacher should always be open-minded and ready to accept change.
2. Patience
Everybody is different. What works for one pupil may not work for another. The key is patience.
3. Building Relationships
Building positive relationships with pupils helps to look after the classroom and makes learning fun.
4. Self-Care
Teaching is demanding so remember to look after yourself to remain effective in the classroom
That first day of teaching can be extremely difficult but, at the same time, so rewarding. It's another one of those first days: first hellos, first lessons, first of many to really develop your classroom community. You will, as you journey through, grow with your pupils. You learn from every experience to become a better teacher each day.
Teaching in school is more about inspiring somebody than actually imparting information. The very first day will show you the difference you can make in life, and you'll just be so thankful to have the opportunity to make a difference in your pupils' lives.
