🎙️ Week one sets the tone for the entire school year.

In this episode of Term Talk, I unpack why connection before content isn’t just a nice idea - it’s a strategic choice that shapes classroom culture, behaviour, and learning from the very start.

This week I share five intentional week one strategies that help students feel safe, seen, and ready to learn - without losing valuable teaching time.

These are practical, classroom-tested approaches you can use immediately, whether you’re an early career teacher or a seasoned educator.

In this episode, we explore:

1. Why connection isn’t about games - it’s about safety and predictability
2. How intentional pre-assessment builds trust, not anxiety
3. Simple ways to model vulnerability and invite student voice
4. How structured icebreakers support peer connection
5. A powerful visual strategy to build belonging from day one

If week one ever feels chaotic or overwhelming this episode will help you slow down, design connection with intention, and set your class up for smarter learning all year long.

🎙️ Next episode: Routines - not rules (the invisible work that saves you time)

Links referenced in this episode:

1. canva.com

✨ Connect with me:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teacher_life101/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ndibernardo

Keywords: Week one teaching, classroom culture, connection before content, back to school strategies, building relationships in the classroom, teacher wellbeing, classroom routines, student engagement

Term Talk is a teacher podcast focused on wellbeing, reflection and sustainable teaching practice. Through honest reflection on learning, leadership and growth, the podcast explores the messy, human side of teaching. Short, calm episodes support educators to learn, lead and grow across the school term.