20 Tips for Preservice Teachers to Survive and Thrive in Your First Teaching Placement

A well-organised preservice teacher is a prepared teacher! Keep a planner or digital calendar to track lesson plans, meetings, observations, and deadlines.

Having a clear overview of your tasks will help you stay on top of everything and reduce last-minute stress.

Colour-code your notes, set reminders, and establish a routine to keep yourself on track.

Teaching can feel like a juggling act, so prioritising tasks is key. 

Plan lessons in advance, avoid procrastination, and break larger tasks into manageable steps.

 Having a daily to-do list can help keep you focused and prevent you from feeling overwhelmed.

Your teacher placement isn’t just about teaching—it’s about learning too! 

Be open to new strategies, classroom management techniques, and student engagement methods. 

Every day is an opportunity to grow as an educator.

Getting to know your students as individuals will make a world of difference. 

Learn their interests, strengths, and challenges. 

Understanding their personalities and learning styles will help you create a more inclusive and engaging classroom environment.

Never be afraid to ask for help. Your mentor, colleagues, and even students can be valuable sources of knowledge. 

If you’re unsure about something, seek clarification—it’s better to ask than to struggle in silence.

You don’t have to be perfect from day one. Teaching is a skill that takes time to develop.

Set small, achievable goals for yourself and celebrate progress rather than striving for perfection.

Teaching can be demanding, and burnout is real. 

Make sure to take short breaks when possible, whether it’s a deep breath between lessons or a quick walk during lunch. 

Taking care of yourself ensures you have the energy to give your best to your students.

Not every lesson will go smoothly, and not every day will be easy.

 Keeping a positive mindset will help you handle challenges with resilience. 

Focus on the small wins and remind yourself why you chose this profession in the first place.

One of the best ways to learn is by watching experienced teachers in action. 

Observe their classroom management techniques, how they engage students, and how they handle unexpected situations. 

Take notes on what resonates with you and think about how you can incorporate these strategies into your own teaching.

Learning to teach takes time, and progress can feel slow. 

Some lessons will be a hit, while others may not go as planned. Stay patient with yourself, your students, and the process. 

Growth happens gradually, and every experience contributes to your development.

Did a student finally grasp a tricky concept?

 Did you manage to get through a lesson without feeling flustered? 

Celebrate these moments! 

Acknowledging small achievements will keep you motivated and reinforce the progress you're making.

Classrooms can be unpredictable, especially during your teacher prac . 

Rather than resisting the chaos, embrace it!

 Find humour in unexpected moments and go with the flow.

P.S. If you need a good laugh, check out this blog:  Teacher Stories: Funniest Moments

Surround yourself with other preservice teachers, mentors, and colleagues who can offer advice and encouragement. 

Having people to share experiences with will make your journey more enjoyable and provide you with valuable insights.

 This doesn’t have to be just in person—it can also be online through social media or Facebook groups, where you can connect, learn, and support each other no matter where you are.

Your well-being is just as important as your teaching.

 Make sure to eat nutritious meals, get enough sleep, and engage in activities that help you relax.

A well-rested and healthy teacher is more effective in the classroom.

Take a few minutes at the end of each day to reflect on what went well and what could be improved. 

Keeping a teaching journal can help you track your progress and identify areas for growth.

Reflection is a powerful tool for becoming a better educator.

There will be tough days, but always remember why you chose to become a teacher. 

The impact you make on your students’ lives is immeasurable. 

Keep your passion for teaching at the forefront, and let it guide you through the challenges and triumphs of your placement.

Classroom behaviour management is one of the biggest challenges for new teachers. 

Set clear expectations from the start, be consistent with rules, and use positive reinforcement to encourage good behaviour.

Observe how experienced teachers handle disruptions and adapt their strategies to suit your own style.

Technology can be a fantastic teaching tool, but it can also be a distraction. 

Use digital tools to enhance your lessons, engage students, and stay organised. 

Whether it’s interactive whiteboards, learning apps, or online resources, find what works best for your teaching style and classroom setting.

Start collecting lesson plans, worksheets, and activities that you find useful during your placement.

Having a resource bank will save you time and effort when you have your own classroom.

Keep track of websites, books, and strategies that inspire you.

While learning from others is essential, don’t forget to develop your own unique teaching style. 

Find what feels authentic to you and what resonates with your students. 

The best teachers are those who bring their personality and passion into the classroom.

Your first teaching placement is a unique and valuable experience filled with learning opportunities, challenges, and moments of joy.

By staying organised, building relationships, seeking feedback, and looking after yourself, you’ll not only survive your teacher prac but thrive in it.

Remember, every great teacher started where you are now—keep learning, keep growing, and most importantly, enjoy the journey!

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