Before+the+First+Day

Even though you technically don't have any students yet, work can still be done!

- Rearrange the tables and chairs. The aim of this is to create an effective learning environment and space that will cater for you and every student. The arrangement should provide you with access to any student in the room, to ensure effective behaviour management.

- Rearrange the furniture in the classroom, such as portable whiteboards and storage trolleys. Ensure that there is enough space and clear traffic pathways. Furthermore, if the classroom seems spacious students will feel more comfortable and not as overwhelmed.

- Create labels for as many things as possible, if students know where things are kept within the classroom they will feel more welcome and more at home, further easing the pressure of your first day

- Assure that everything that the students will require is easily accessible, and that there are name tages for student's desks and bag hooks. You want to make life as easy as possible for you on the first day rather than having twenty or so students yelling in your face asking where do I sit?, where are the pencils?, etc.

As a teacher, your should want all children to feel special and valued as a classmember. To further demonstrate this togetherness, create a door poster with all the students' names on it. Consequently students feel valued, place your name on it as well, further creating a sense of we are all in this together.

There is great importance on how the classroom is organised and decorated can contribute or detract from creating a good learning environment. Your aim is to create an atmosphere which is both comfortable and safe. At the end of the day you want your classroom to have a warm, welcoming, friendly and inspiring vibe.

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