Back to School Support: For Teachers and Support Staff

September. New shoes squeaking down corridors. Labels freshly ironed. Names to learn. Displays to finish. Energy running high — and emotions running higher.

While so much attention is (rightly) placed on the children settling back in, it’s easy to forget the huge transition happening for the grown-ups in school too — especially teachers and support staff.

New classes. New needs. New expectations.

And a summer that probably didn’t feel long enough.

Why transitions matter for school staff too, just like the children, you’re adjusting. Maybe to:

• A new year group, curriculum or room

• Pupils with high needs or emotional regulation struggles

• Staff changes or leadership reshuffles

• Pressures from parents or internal expectations

• Your own mental health, family life or energy levels

And you’re doing it all while holding space for 30 (or more) little nervous systems.

This is big work.

It’s heart work.

And it takes a lot out of you — especially if you’re the kind of educator who feels deeply, cares fully, and gives their all.

Supporting yourself through the transition

Here are a few gentle reminders and supportive tools to help you steady yourself this September:

🌼 You’re allowed to feel wobbly too

Even if you’re “experienced” or “should be used to it” — change still takes energy. Acknowledge it. Honour it.

🌼 Your nervous system matters

If you’re constantly running on adrenaline or “teacher mode”, your body is likely crying out for balance. Slow breaths. Regular grounding. Tapping in the staffroom. Give yourself moments of nervous system reset.

🌼 Micro-moments make a big difference

A mindful cup of tea, a kind message to a colleague, stepping outside for two minutes — tiny shifts can help you feel less overwhelmed and more present.

🌼 Use tools like EFT

Even one round of tapping between lessons can help. Try:

“Even though today feels full-on, I’m doing the best I can — and I can take a breath.”

🌼 Let yourself be human

You don’t need to be superhuman. You can make mistakes, have bad days, ask for help, and still be a brilliant educator.

🌼 Lean on each other

Make time for supportive chats, gentle check-ins, and real talk with colleagues. Community and connection can be your anchor in the chaos.

Final thoughts

You’re not just managing a class — you’re guiding young hearts and minds through a season of transition.

That’s powerful work.

And exhausting work.

So please don’t forget to care for you, too.

As you pour into others, make sure your own cup gets filled — with rest, nourishment, connection, and tools that support your wellbeing.

Here’s to a school year that begins with compassion — for the children, and for yourself.

💛 How I Can Support You or Your Child

I offer one-to-one support for children, teens (8–18+), parents, and teachers who may be finding transitions or emotions overwhelming. Sessions are gentle, empowering, and tailored to each individual, using a blend of EFT tapping, coaching, and calming techniques. I work in person at my beautiful, peaceful therapy space in Bradford on Avon, or online via Zoom. If you’d like to explore support for yourself, your child, or your school, you’re warmly welcome to get in touch.

More info, availability, and pricing can be found at www.rachelstacey-mckay.com