Dear Teacher, here’s how to stay calm and recharge in the final weeks of school

It’s that time of year again, reports, class parties, paperwork, and energy levels running on empty. The December holidays are so close, but somehow these last few weeks feel like the longest of them all.

Before you burn out completely, here are a few small ways to relax right now, even while school is still in full swing.

1. Take Mini Breaks, Not Just Coffee Ones

Between marking or admin, step outside for five minutes of sunshine and quiet. Breathe deeply. Stretch. Look up at the sky. Even a short pause can reset your brain and help you push through the rest of the day.

2. Slow Your Mornings

Try waking up ten minutes earlier for a calm start, no rushing, no multitasking.

Sip your tea slowly. Listen to music. When you start peacefully, the day feels a little lighter (even when it’s report-day chaos).

3. Lean on Your Teacher Tribe

Share a laugh in the staffroom, swap funny learner stories, and remind each other that you’re all in this together. Sometimes just knowing you’re not alone makes the last stretch easier.

4. Add a Little Joy to the Routine

Play soft music while marking. Decorate your classroom for summer. Let your learners help with fun, easy end-of-year tasks, they love it, and it lightens your load.

5. Rest at Home, Properly

When you get home, leave school at school. Have a simple dinner, take a walk, or watch something light-hearted. You don’t have to plan, prep, or mark every night, your body and mind need rest too. ( We also have fantastic tests to help lighten the load a bit https://www.cssummaries.co.za/tests )

6. Remember: You’re Almost There

You’ve poured your heart into your learners all year. Now’s the time to be gentle with yourself. The holidays are coming, but peace doesn’t have to wait. Find it in the small, slow moments between now and that final bell.

Here’s to surviving the last stretch with calm, kindness and a little bit of sunshine. 💛