5 Smart Things (for Teachers) to Do Now That You Actually Have (Some) Time

(For teachers on summer break, from people who totally get it)

During the term, there’s barely space to pause—let alone think about small tasks that might help later on. Most things that feel “nice to do” just don’t make the cut when your priority list is already bursting.

But now, with the pace shifting, there’s a chance to give a little attention to the things that often fall to the bottom of the pile.Not must-dos. Not big projects. Just small, feel-good actions that might make your September self breathe a little easier.

Here are five that might be worth your time—if and when you feel ready.

1. Let Go of the Guilt List

There’s always something you feel you should be doing over summer—catching up on research, tweaking last year’s planning, rethinking displays.

But not everything on that mental list needs ticking off.

Ask yourself: Will doing this help me feel more ready—or just more drained?

If it’s not serving you, let it go. Rest is productive too.

2. Make a September Shortcut

Set a 15-minute timer. Use it to do one thing your future self will genuinely thank you for.

Here’s what counts:

Print your seating plan templates

Create a ‘First Day Back’ morning routine slide

Stock up on your drawer snacks (you know, the ones you hide from the class)

That's it. Do one thing. Then go outside.

3. Reboot Your Brain

Read a book with no learning objective.

Watch something that makes you laugh so hard you snort.

Go somewhere where no one knows you’re a teacher.

That’s it. That’s the tip.

4. Plan CPD That Won’t Drain You

September CPD doesn’t have to mean a 3-hour PowerPoint in a stuffy hall.

Line up one or two CPD sessions now that you’re actually interested in—something bite-sized, practical, and that reminds you why you love the job.

(Milestone’s On Demand and live virtual options are great for this—no hard sell, promise.)

5. Pick One Thing to Stop Doing

Summer is reflection season, so here’s your permission slip:

Pick one thing you’re not going to carry into next year.

Maybe it’s marking every book every night.

Maybe it’s staying late to do corridor displays.

Maybe it’s answering emails at 9pm.

Draw a line. Practice saying no while practicing saying yes to your wellbeing.

You don’t need to change your life this summer. You just need to rest. And maybe—if it feels good—reclaim a little headspace.

If you do one of these five things, you're already winning.