Celebrating the end of your teacher training year and the power of rest

July marks a huge milestone – not just for us as a training provider, but for every trainee teacher across the country who is reaching the end of their training year.  

We’ve had the privilege of supporting this year’s cohort through every high and low of the journey. And as we celebrate our 10th anniversary as a teacher training provider, we’re especially proud of the part we’ve played in shaping a new generation of teachers ready to step into classrooms and make a lasting difference. 

Now, as the school year winds down and our training programmes start to draw to a close, this is a moment to pause, take stock of everything you’ve achieved, and most importantly – to rest. 

 

An extraordinary year of growth 

Training to become a teacher is an intensive professional development experience. From building subject knowledge and pedagogical skill to navigating behaviour management, time pressure, and emotional ups and downs – it demands resilience, focus, and care. 

But you’ve done it. You’ve managed tricky moments, created joyful ones, and learned how your presence in the classroom matters to the young people in our schools. 

 

Why rest is a professional priority 

It’s tempting, as the school year ends, to jump straight into September planning as an Early Career Teacher (ECT). But before you do we encourage you to pause. Rest is not an afterthought. It’s a key part of becoming a sustainable, effective teacher. 

Educational research consistently supports the idea that cognitive recovery – the process of stepping away from high-stimulation, high-responsibility environments – helps protect against burnout, improve long-term memory, and support decision-making.  

 

What comes next? 

Whether you’re stepping into your first ECT role this September or taking time to consider your next steps, remember this: 

– You’ve already proven your commitment. 

– You have the foundation you need to thrive. 

– You’re never expected to be perfect — just to keep showing up with purpose and care. 

Take time this summer to reconnect with the things that energise you – rest, family, sunshine, reading for fun, or simply not setting an alarm.  

 

Training the educational workforce of the future 

We’ve spent the last 10 years supporting and developing inspirational new teachers, and we know this to be true – our profession is stronger because of the passion, commitment, and fresh thinking you bring. No matter where you trained, you now belong to the shared mission of creating classrooms where every child can thrive. 

To those who trained with us directly: we’re incredibly proud to have walked alongside you. And to every new teacher joining the profession this year: welcome to the teaching community. You are needed. You are valued. And we can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make. 

So take this summer to rest and recharge – because come September, you’ll be ready to inspire.