 My Non-Negotiables for Staying Organised as a TeacheRStaying organised as a teacher isn’t about colour-coding everything or having a “perfect” classroom even though it is something I love. Let's take it back to the basics first, it’s about systems — simple, repeatable habits that reduce stress and free up mental space. As a music and German teacher, my timetable (currently music and resource classes) is busy, my materials vary constantly, and my brain is juggling a lot. Over time, I’ve learned that organisation only works when it’s realistic and sustainable. These are my non-negotiables - the things I come back to every single week. 1. One Planning System (No Switching) This was a game changer. I don’t jump between planners, apps, notebooks, and random sticky notes anymore. I use one main planning routine and stick with it.
My go to lesson planning routine: Term - map out what I want to cover weekly but very vague, just topic/ theme Each term I map out on one table in Microsoft word what I plan to do each week. Weekly - more in depth where I list resources and activities that I plan to do in class Each week when I am in the term I plan what I will do each lesson (in my teacher planner). I generally work a week ahead of myself to stay on top of everything. Planner: 2. A Weekly Reset (Even a Short One) I don’t aim for perfection - I aim for a reset. Once a week, I:
3. Lesson Structures I don’t reinvent the wheel every week. Most of my lessons follow a similar structure, whether I’m teaching music or German. That means:
This is also why I design resources that can be reused and adapted across different classes and levels. 4. Resources That Work If a resource:
I make resources that:
5. Everything Has a Home This applies to physical and digital spaces. Folders, files, materials, worksheets - everything has a clear place. Organisation isn’t about aesthetics, it’s about knowing where things are without thinking. Building an organisation system for your digital resources doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time – maybe something you can do over a mid-term break or Summer. 6. Calm Over Complicated This is probably my biggest non-negotiable. I’ve learned that:
Why This Matters Organisation doesn’t make teaching perfect, but it makes it easier to manage. It means:
If organisation has ever felt like another thing to keep up with, I promise — it doesn’t have to be. Start with one system. Master it. Let it help you. 2025/26 The Post Primary Teacher Planner
€17.99
€14.00
Stay organised, inspired, and in control all year long with the 2025/26 all-in-one Teacher Planner. Designed with educators in mind, this digital pick & mix planner is packed with everything you need to plan, track, and manage your classroom and beyond. Inside, you’ll find:
Whether you prefer to use it digitally on your device or print it at home, this planner adapts to your style. It’s more than a planner – it’s your all-in-one teaching companion. Terms & Conditions – Planner Purchase 1. Digital Product Only
2. Usage
3. Personal Use License
4. Non-Returnable & Non-Refundable
5. Compatibility
6. Intellectual Property
7. Acceptance of Terms
Master Plan Template
€3.00
STAYING ORGANISED WHILE TEACHING ✨ This templates are what I use for all of my class groups. I can glance at this and see what I am doing for the week. I use my class plans that I do each term to fill this in so I can plan for each week. I aim to fill this in on the Thursday or Friday for the following week. It is always a working document for me. It is a place where I was keeping track of what we did and what was covered. This keeps my organisation game at 100%. (Filled in version for show only) Format: BLANK Editable Microsoft word document
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AuthorThis is a space for me to share what's on my mind - teaching and life related. Expect nothing fancy or well composed just the real life Múinteoir Cole Archives
January 2026
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