Your first year of teaching will be one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of your career. Here's what experienced teachers wish they'd known from day one.
Know Your Entitlements
If you're a permanent or temporary teacher in your first or second year, you're likely eligible for the Beginning Teacher Support Entitlement. This funding should provide extra release time for planning and collaboration with your mentor. The NSW Department's Strong Start Great Teachers framework outlines what quality induction looks like.
Manage Your Time Ruthlessly
You cannot do everything perfectly in your first year. Instead:
- Plan efficiently, not exhaustively: Focus on clear learning intentions and engaging activities.
- Borrow shamelessly: Experienced colleagues have resources they're happy to share.
- Set boundaries: Decide when work stops each day, and protect it.
Focus on Relationships
Research consistently shows that positive student-teacher relationships are the foundation of effective teaching. Learn names quickly. Greet students at the door. Ask about their lives outside school.
Behaviour Management is About Systems
Establish clear, consistent routines from day one. Students need to know exactly what's expected, and consequences need to be predictable and fair. Observe experienced teachers who manage classrooms effectively.
Accreditation Isn't as Scary as It Seems
Collect evidence as you go. When a lesson goes well, quickly note why. Building your portfolio throughout the year is far less stressful than scrambling later.
Take Care of Yourself
Teaching is emotionally demanding. Find your people—colleagues who understand what you're going through. Maintain interests outside teaching.
TeachPlan was designed with beginning teachers in mind. Pre-populated curriculum alignment and guided lesson planning help you focus on developing your practice.