Christmas shopping can cause a monumental headache if you’re fresh out of ideas for your friends and family. However, if you have a teacher in the ranks then there’s a few select gifts that could go down very well. They’ll be stocked up on wine and chocolates from grateful parents, students and staff members alike, so maybe it’s time to think a little outside the Celebrations box this year…
Stationery
Highlighters, board pens and ballpoints oh my! Remember when you were younger and going to WHSmiths for your back-to-school pencil case was the best thing about going back to school? Teachers feel the same way. Trust me, a swanky set of gel pens can go a long way.
Lanyards and pins
This will initially raise a few eyebrows but use your imagination! Lanyards come in all colours and patterns. Gryffindor gold and brown, rainbow, map of the world… The list is endless, and nothing makes an English teacher happier than an I Heart Shakespeare pin proudly adorning their brand new ‘Reading is Lit’ lanyard…
A desk calendar or notebook
A close second to stationery is a place to write lists. Lots and lots of lists.
Personalised tote bag
Teachers have a lot of stuff. It’s inevitable. Sometimes a satchel or a handbag just won’t cut it! Make it memorable by personalising it with their name (minus the first name of course – not that the kids haven’t tried to figure that out by now). You could even go the extra mile and find a chic shopping trolley. They’re all the rage in the teaching circle these days and provide an abundance of space, and wheels.
A good pair of shoes
I knew a Head of Year who had worn the soles of his shoes down so much he could ski in them after six weeks. Teachers do a lot of walking around and a decent pair of shoes can be a life saver! A Fitbit isn’t a bad shout either.
Novelty mug
Every teacher should have a World’s Best Teacher mug, so if they haven’t received at least five from their class - this is a solid choice. It’s even better if it’s got their surname on it so it doesn’t mysteriously disappear from the staff room…
Funky Friday tie
Kids love to jazz up their uniforms one way or another, teachers are no different. Fridays are the perfect time to bring out the wacky tie collection. They’re also competitive so the more flamboyant the better!
Wireless mouse
This is more practical than festive, but it will make giving instructions from the back of the room a dream! Super handy for teachers on the move around the classroom so they don’t have to keep running back and forth from the desk to pause the video or avoid the screensaver of their cat cropping up.
A well-deserved rest
A thoughtful gift voucher for a mini break, a fun activity or a relaxing massage to be cashed in for next half term is the perfect Christmas pick-me-up for a burnt-out teacher to look forward to.
Calling all educators: take care of yourselves over the holidays and I hope you enjoy a well-earned rest. If you know a teacher, spread the Christmas spirit and let them know they’re appreciated – even if it is with a box of Ferrero Rochers, it won’t be turned down!
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About the author
Tammy Lane
After completing a BA in Creative Writing and a Masters in Creative and Critical Writing at the University of Winchester, Tammy worked as a Learning Support Assistant, with a focus on helping students develop their literacy skills. She then taught as an English teacher at an all-boys comprehensive school in Berkshire. Tammy now works for Eteach as Marketing Manager, where she can combine her passion for education and writing.
