Thread by @tstarkey1212

Here are some quick tips for those about to start in the teaching profession.

Yeah, I know no one asked. I don't care. HERE WE GO!

1. Get a good, sturdy bag with ample room and lots of pockets. I used military-style backpacks and they were ace.

2. Save time in the mornings by replacing any shoes that have laces with elasticated ones.

It also makes them easier to slip-on/off if you have a few minutes to. Be kind to your feet.

3. Being in a mad, panic driven rush will be fairly standard. Even so, always be polite to all staff. It doesn't cost anything and means other busy folk are more likely to help you. Also, you're not a toerag. Acting like one won't make your job easier.

4. Although you will be part of a large team, teaching usually happens in professional isolation. Start getting used to not being sure you're getting things exactly right. Just try and do the best you can.

*takes break for a vodka orange*

Right. Where was I?

5. Comparison of your teaching to someone else's who is at a different stage of their career is not particularly useful. There are factors in play that make your position harder and these won't change. It's not just about the way you teach.

6. There are certain 'red flags' you need to be aware of in mainstream schools. If they appear, then look for a job in another school. The biggest one of these for me is that verbal or physical abuse from students is 'part of the job.' Not in mainstream it isn't. Run.

7. Teaching is not all about relationships.

But relationships help.

8. There is a view that the most disruptive kids in a class are the ones that need most help and care. In my own experience, this is patently false. Be mindful of the quiet ones.

9. I've built incredibly strong friendships with colleagues in schools. Cherish these. But make sure you keep up with friends outside the profession. You need downtime that is away from the classroom in both body and mind.

10. Education is a noble pursuit, but not everyone involved in education is noble. Be aware.

11. If you have a chance / opportunity to coach a sports team in your school (and you're not already swamped), take it. It gives a whole new perspective.

12. No job, not even teaching, is worth your physical and mental health.

13. Be prepared to have no idea whether your efforts have paid off for the kids you teach. You are only one stop in the great bus journey that is their lives.

(However, there's no better feeling than an ex-student contacting you to say you did alright.)

14. Protect your free time (both in and out of school) as voraciously as a mother bear protects her cub. Family, hobbies, fun - these are no less important than your work.

15. Last one.

Now, more than ever, you are *needed*. You are the front line against ignorance and all that comes with it.

Hold your head high.

And thank you.