It is that time of year again when, as a teacher, you are readying yourself for another exciting year of study. It can be an exceptionally busy time, which is why it is important you get as much planning done ahead of the first bell of the new term. Once that rings, it is very much go, go, go.

This guide will help you get organised, easing you back into the professional mindset after what is always a welcome break. It is time to get focused, so that you begin as you mean to go on – inspired, full of ideas and enthused about teaching.

Establish a thorough schedule

Make the most of the “free time’ you have before your pupils return/start school. Ideally, you should look to put together the most comprehensive schedule possible.

Use your school’s academic calendar as a framework and plan in lessons, events, days of interest and so forth. Anything that will complement your efforts in the classroom warrants being included. The more prepared you are, the easier life will be.

Re-familiarise yourself with your subject

Needless to say you are somewhat of an authority on your subject matter, but even the most enthusiastic teacher will cut down on research while on their summer holidays.

Start small. See what the Department for Education has published, for example, browse through your tweets and treat yourself to the latest books. Then, of course, as you get closer to the start of term, absolutely blitz the curriculum until you are confident you grasp the overall picture.

Create the right kind of environment

If you are lucky enough to have your own classroom, you should look to create an inviting, purposeful and productive environment to be in. It has to have a certain wow factor to it, the kind that pupils can thrive in.

Think about the mood you are trying to create, the equipment/resources you need on hand, the information you want youngsters to see everyday. So, for example, if you’re a history teacher, populate your classroom with artefacts, posters and even furniture that is relevant to what you will be teaching.

Energisers, icebreakers and group contracts

It is all about first impressions, especially if you’ve got an entire new set of students to teach. Begin then with a number of fun energisers and icebreakers, so that you and your pupils can get to know one another.

You should also turn your attention to what is expected of your pupils when it comes to behaviour. The most effective way of getting youngsters to “sign up” to a “group contract” is to give them ownership of it. Steering them in the right direction, so to speak, get them to come up with their own rules. Stick it up in a prominent place.

Establish 'working socials'

Once the new term starts, you’ll find that every hour of your day will be used up. Be it planning, marking assignments, contending with paperwork, observing presentations and taking charge of extracurricular responsibilities, teaching can be a solitary affair.

This can mean you hardly ever get to engage with colleagues, which is why it is important to establish regular socials. This should be twofold – one type should be free of work, while the other should be a “working social”, where, over beers and food, you discuss, share and learn from one another.