Newly qualified? 5 tips for a successful first day

2. Class seating plans

Decide on how many groups you’ll have. Four to five is usually enough depending on the class size.

I give each group a name, e.g. red table, grúpa glas, or you can go with something more unique. It can be nice to go with something simple at the start of the year.

You can also link group names to where the class stores books, copies, mini-whiteboards, etc. using a key. For example, a green sticker on a shelf for where the grúpa glas can find their materials.

Some teachers also prefer not to make a final seating plan (or plans) until a few days into the school year. This allows you to observe how the children interact with each other and allows them to pick their own seats for the first few days of settling in. You may also consider setting desks in rows for the first week so that you can maintain good eye content and ensure better attention and behaviour while you establish yourself as their teacher.

Click Next page for ideas about using labels to get to know your students better.