Making the most of your summer break as an international teacher

After months of lesson planning, report writing, and the joyful chaos of classroom life, the summer break is finally here. For international teachers, the holidays offer a valuable window for rest, reflection, and reconnection – often in places far from where they’ve been living. But with so many possibilities (and perhaps some exhaustion), how can you make the most of it? Here’s how to turn your break into a fulfilling, restorative time, whatever your plans may be.

Recharge without guilt

First things first, rest is productive. You’ve likely been running on adrenaline for months, navigating both the classroom and life in another country. Give yourself permission to do less. Sleep in, binge a show, read a book for fun, or spend time in nature. Burnout doesn’t vanish overnight, so build in stretches of true downtime without filling your calendar with obligations.

Reconnect with people and places

Summer break is a great time to reconnect with family and friends, especially if you’ve spent the year away from home. Catching up in person or over long video calls can help ground you and remind you of the support network that exists beyond your school bubble. If you’re travelling, consider revisiting places that hold meaning or exploring new corners of the world that recharge your spirit.

Reflect on the past year

Without the rush of daily teaching, you finally have space to reflect. What worked well this year? What challenged you? What did you learn about your students – and yourself? Reflective journalling, goal setting, or even chatting with fellow educators can help you process the year and start envisioning the one ahead.

Pursue your own learning (if you want to)

For some, summer is the perfect time to dive into professional development—on your own terms. This could be attending a short online course, reading up on a new teaching method, or exploring tech tools you didn’t have time for during term. But remember: this is optional. Don’t pressure yourself into productivity if rest is what you truly need.

Indulge your hobbies and passions

Remember that person you were outside of school? Use the break to reconnect with the hobbies and passions that energise you. Whether it’s painting, hiking, cooking, photography, or writing, doing something just for you is a great reminder that your identity isn’t solely tied to being a teacher.

Prepare for the year ahead (slowly)

Toward the end of your break, you might feel ready to start thinking about the next school year. Do it gently. This might mean sketching out some ideas, bookmarking resources, or prepping a few lessons. Avoid the temptation to overhaul everything – your future self will thank you for easing in rather than diving headfirst.

Your summer break as an international teacher is a precious opportunity to reset, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. Whether you spend it globe-trotting, lounging with a good book, or learning something new, the key is to be intentional. By making time for yourself, your relationships, and your reflections, you’ll return to the classroom refreshed and ready for another rewarding year.