We’ve made it to October half term, can you believe it? The first term of the school year is always a whirlwind of new routines, endless to-do lists, and trying to keep up with everything else life throws your way. It’s no wonder so many of us are feeling that special kind of exhaustion that only teachers truly understand – teacher tired.
And now, as the evenings draw in and the days get shorter, it can start to feel like you’re living in a loop: eat, sleep, work, repeat. You head into school in the dark, come home in the dark, and somewhere in between, you’re meant to function like a fully energised adult. But the truth is, this time of year can be tough.
That’s why I want to remind you – half term is your time. To slow down. To breathe again. To rediscover the small things that make you feel like you, outside of the classroom.
Polish the Present ✨
This is something I’ve learned recently that has really stuck with me: “Polish the present.”
When you get home after a long day, even the smallest comforts can help you feel grounded. Pop on your fairy lights, make yourself a decaf tea in your favourite mug, and light that candle you’ve been saving for a “special occasion.” I know, it sounds a bit cliché. But trust me, these small rituals really do make a difference.
They don’t magically fix everything overnight, especially if you’re feeling low or overwhelmed, but they help. They bring little moments of warmth and calm to the darker days. It’s about making your evenings feel like something to look forward to, rather than just the time between one workday and the next.
Slow Down and Let Go of the “Urgent”
If you find your heart racing at work, feeling swamped and pulled in a hundred directions – pause. Take a breath.
I’ve realised that so much of what feels urgent in teaching isn’t, really. It’s important, yes – but it can wait. The world won’t end if that email doesn’t get sent until tomorrow or if that display isn’t refreshed this week.
Something that’s changed my mindset completely is accepting that I will never be “on top of” everything. My inbox will always refill, the to-do list will always grow, and that’s okay. Teaching isn’t about perfection, it’s about doing your best with what you can each day.
So this half term, try to release that pressure a little. Focus instead on what really matters – yourself.
Try a Brain Dump 🧠🖊️
Another little thing that’s helped me recently? Brain dumping.
It sounds messy (and honestly, it is a bit), but it’s one of the most freeing habits I’ve ever started. I bought myself a big, pretty journal, and whenever I need to, I just write. No prompts. No plan. Just whatever’s on my mind—good or bad.
It’s amazing how much clarity you can find when you let your thoughts spill onto paper. It helps you see what’s really bothering you, what’s taking up space in your mind, and it feels like a quiet form of release.
Try it this half term – see when it fits best for you. Maybe it’s a quick scribble with your morning coffee, or a calm 10 minutes before bed. There’s no right way to do it – just your way.
Rediscover Joy Through Hobbies 🎨🧶
And finally – hobbies. Real ones. The ones that have nothing to do with work.
I’ve recently rediscovered how much I love being crafty. I’ve bought brush pens, colouring books, diamond painting kits, sticker mosaic books, and even a little gnome to paint (because why not?). I’ve fallen in love with those little creative moments again, and they make me so happy.
If you’re like me, have a mooch around The Range or your favourite shop this half term—you might find something that sparks joy for you, too. It doesn’t have to be creative; it could be baking, reading, gardening, or just taking a long walk. The key is to find something that feels good for you.
Because knowing you have something you enjoy waiting for you at the end of the day makes such a difference. It’s what turns “just getting through” into actually living again.
Your Half Term Reminder 💛
This half term, give yourself permission to slow down. To rest. To find joy in small, quiet ways.
You’re more than your classroom, more than your marking pile, and more than your to-do list. You’re a person who deserves light, laughter, and comfort – even (and especially) in the darker months.
So embrace the cosy season. Polish the present. Pick up that journal. Try that hobby. And most importantly, remember – you’re doing enough, and you are enough.
Happy half term, teachers. You’ve earned every minute of it. 🍁🕯️☕
Related Resources for You
If you’re feeling inspired to bring a little more calm and balance into your daily routine, we’ve got a few free resources that might help you get started:
💛 Teacher Colouring Pages – A set of colouring pages with a humorous teacher twist.
🕯️ Habit Tracker – Keep on top of those small daily habits that make you feel good.
📘 Reflection Journal Template – Use alongside your brain dumps to track thoughts, moods, and moments of gratitude.
Take what you need, use what helps, and remember – it’s okay to slow down.
Find me on TikTok sharing my real-life experiences of this:
