So, the GCSE and A Level exams are over, and a long summer stretches ahead of us. What do the tutors do during the summer holidays – just relax, right?
Well, if I am writing a blog about it, then there is a fair chance that the answer is “No! We don’t just relax!”. Here are a few of the things I will be getting up to in July and August.
- Planning for the term ahead. That isn’t just for schoolteachers. Those who like to work smarter rather than harder will use some of their free time to get ahead of the curve. That may mean reading up on a new curriculum, exam techniques and teaching methods, or simply getting ahead on the lesson plans for each of the students I am expecting in September.
- Producing new material. Yes, this does technically come under the idea of planning for the term ahead. Creating new games, activities and even worksheets all take time, so looking back at notes from past classes can give some hints as to which extra materials would be useful. I like to jot ideas down on my phone during the term and then develop the ones which I think will be most useful.
- Accounts. Never the most thrilling of tasks, but getting on with the accounts and preparing the tax return for the last financial year is always easier if you are not trying to teach a full timetable at the same time!
- Marketing! This should be an all-year-round task, but networking in particular can be hard to make time for when you are in an in-person teaching position. Writing blog posts, preparing advertising, planning social media posts, updating the website…
- Clearing the decks at home. I really hope I am not the only tutor who finds that household tasks can slip during the busy exam-preparation period. Fixing a dripping tap, spring cleaning (well, summer cleaning) and having a good declutter all help set up the household for the new academic year. Yes, I genuinely did finally get round to having two drippy taps fixed, and am happy to recommend our lovely plumber to anyone who is in the area!
- Reading. I love reading, but so rarely have time to read books for pleasure. While I have some more time available to do so, I will definitely be working through the pile of unread books that have been gathering dust over the last year. I will also be reading the A Level texts that my students will be working on from September, so that I can refresh my memory of the texts and plan which order we will address the relevant tasks.
- Teaching! Unlike schoolteachers, independent tutors often continue to work during the holiday seasons. Whether that be helping school students to catch up from the past year (or get ahead for the next one) or continuing classes for adult learners, I am pleased to say that I will continue to teach while the schools have their summer break.
- Holiday. Around all of the above we will also be fitting in some time away from home and work. Definitely time for a much-needed rest and recharge.
Happy summer holidays everyone!