Navigating the Post-Holiday Transition: A Gentle Guide for School Staff
Returning to school after a break can feel unexpectedly challenging. While holidays offer rest and reflection, the shift back to structured routines may bring fatigue, stress, and emotional strain. Whether you're a teacher, leader, or support staff, here are six common challenge, sand practical, compassionate tips, to help you ease back into school life.
You can download the guide here.
1. Resetting Sleep Routines
Challenge: Late nights and slow mornings can make early starts feel tough.
Tip: Begin adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before term starts. Gradually shift your bedtime and wake-up time to match your school routine. Consistency is key—aim to sleep and wake at the same time daily.
2. Rebuilding Structure
Challenge: Moving from flexible days to a full timetable can feel overwhelming.
Tip: Plan your first week with a balance of light tasks and enjoyable activities. Use checklists to stay organised and remember to pace yourself. Give yourself permission to ease in.
3. Rekindling Motivation
Challenge: Finding your rhythm again can be difficult, especially with a full workload ahead.
Tip: Set small, achievable goals and celebrate progress. Reconnect with what you love about your role. Share best practices and talk with colleagues, chances are, they’re feeling the same and mutual support can go a long way.
4. Managing Overwhelm
Challenge: Catching up on emails, planning, and admin can feel like a mountain.
Tip: Prioritise using a simple system (e.g., urgent vs. important). Delegate where possible and be kind to yourself. You can do anything—but not everything.
5. Emotional Readjustment
Challenge: Missing family time or feeling anxious about returning can affect your mood.
Tip: Acknowledge your feelings. Use body-based techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness to stay grounded. Emotions don’t need fixing, they need space to be felt and understood.
6. Recharging Your Social Battery
Challenge: Reconnecting with colleagues or students may feel draining.
Tip: Start with small, positive interactions. A simple “How was your summer?” can rebuild rapport. Honour your own pace and communicate your needs, it’s okay to ease back in socially.
Mental Health Support
You're not alone. If you're struggling, these resources are here for you:
- Education Support – Free, confidential help for education staff
📞 08000 562 561 | 🌐 educationsupport.org.uk - Samaritans – 24/7 emotional support
📞 116 123 | 🌐 samaritans.org - NHS Every Mind Matters – Tips and tools for wellbeing
🌐 nhs.uk/every-mind-matters
Additional Resources
Hub of Hope – Find local support services 🌐 https://hubofhope.co.uk
Setting Boundaries Guide 📗 https://www.educationsupport.org.uk/media/qzbhv3o4/16-setting-boundaries.pdf
Staff Mental Health Training: Practical Strategies 🌐 https://www.myedupod.com/download-staffmentalhealthwellbeing
Vicarious Trauma Webinar 🌐 https://www.myedupod.com/blog/vicarious-trauma-cpd
DfE Workload Reduction Toolkit 🌐 https://improve-workload-and-wellbeing-for-school-staff.education.gov.uk
Final Thought
Returning to school doesn’t mean losing your holiday calm. With thoughtful planning, self-compassion, and support, you can transition back into your routine in a way that feels right for you.
If you would like to discuss this article in more detail,
Schedule a call with Dr Asha Patel to discuss your unique situation.
