Entering the classroom as an Early Career Teacher (ECT) can be both an exciting and daunting time. It is normal to feel overwhelmed, but it is important to prioritise taking care of yourself. Doing so can benefit not only your own mental and physical health, but can also have a profound impact on the support you are able to offer your students.

The term self-care can mean a number of things to different people. It involves setting aside intentional time to focus on your own needs and well-being. This can encompass a wide range of activities, from physical exercise to relaxation techniques or hobbies that help you to de-stress. 

Remember, self-care is not selfish. It is an essential aspect of being an effective educator. By taking care of yourself, you are better equipped to handle the challenges and demands of your career, ultimately benefiting both you and your students.

We have pulled together some tips to keep in mind when looking to manage stress levels and prioritise your well-being: 

1. Identify stress triggers:

Take note of situations that cause you unnecessary stress. By identifying these triggers, you and your Mentor can work together to develop strategies and better manage stressful situations in your school setting. 

2. Incorporate relaxation techniques into daily life:

If you find that physical relaxation techniques really help you manage your stress levels, why not incorporate them into your daily routine? Take time out of your day to focus on deep breathing exercises, journaling, meditation or yoga. Anything that can help you relax and unwind will be beneficial to your overall well-being. 

3. Set realistic expectations:

As Early Career Teachers it is the norm to want to know and achieve everything in your first few years of teaching. Setting realistic workload expectations for yourself and your students will allow you to better prioritise tasks and offer a better learning environment for all. 

4. Ask for help if you need it:

If you need help, don't hesitate to ask fellow colleagues or your Early Career Mentor as they are here to support your progression. Taking steps to manage work-related stress is crucial for your well-being and will benefit you greatly in the long run. 

5. Set clear boundaries:

It is important to establish clear boundaries between work and personal life, try not to make a habit of attending work-related events outside of working hours and draw a line between your home and school life so that you are not bringing unnecessary stress home with you. 

6. Create supportive environments:

Surround yourself with like-minded colleagues who can empathise with the stressful elements of teaching. Make the most of being able to network with other ECTs on the Early Career Framework and create a community of supportive Early Career Teachers.

If you would like to learn more about International Stress Awareness Week, click here. 

Looking for more information?

If you would like any more information on our ECF programme, get in contact with us:

 Email: enquiries@bestpracticenet.co.uk

 Tel: +44 (0) 117 920 9200 (8.30am-5.30pm, Mon-Fri)