Preparing your classroom for handover or summer closure

As the final weeks of term approach, the buzz of exams, report writing, and end-of-year events can make it easy to overlook one crucial task: preparing your classroom for handover or closure. Whether you’re staying at your current school or moving on, a well-organised classroom makes a big difference for you – or the teacher stepping into your shoes – when the next academic year begins. Here’s how to get your classroom wrapped up smoothly and efficiently.

Start early and make a plan

Don’t leave it to the final days when energy is low and good intentions get sidelined. Create a checklist a few weeks in advance with key tasks broken down into manageable chunks. If you’re handing your class over to another teacher, factor in time for conversations or sharing notes. If you’re returning, your future self will thank you for the effort you put in now.

Sort, label, and declutter

Over the year, materials accumulate—worksheets, student projects, random props, and that drawer full of orphaned stationery. Go through shelves, cupboards, and trays, keeping only what you’ll genuinely reuse. Recycle outdated resources, discard broken supplies, and group similar items together. Clearly label boxes and folders so they’re easy to identify, especially if someone else will be using the room.

Back up digital resources

If you’ve been using shared computers, USBs, or cloud folders, take time to organise and back up your digital files. Rename confusing file names, consolidate units or themes into folders, and make sure everything is saved in a location you (or your replacement) can access next year. If you’re leaving the school, hand over a copy of relevant teaching resources with clear explanations.

Leave notes for the next teacher

If someone else will be using your classroom, a short handover note can go a long way. Include:

• Classroom routines or quirks (e.g., which cupboard sticks, or how the projector needs coaxing)
• Login information for classroom tech or teaching platforms (where appropriate)
• A quick overview of what’s been covered this year
• Suggestions for what’s worked well with the class

This small gesture can help ease their transition—and shows professionalism and collegiality.

Prepare displays and walls

Check your school’s expectations around classroom walls—some schools require everything to come down, while others may prefer displays to remain. Remove outdated posters, student work, or seasonal décor. Consider leaving a neutral, fresh base for the new school year or putting up basic reference displays that will still be useful next term.

Clean and reset the space

This is especially important if you’re moving on. Wipe down surfaces, tidy up storage spaces, and return borrowed items. If your classroom has been a second home all year, give it the send-off it deserves. A clean, orderly space sets a positive tone for whoever comes next—and signals a respectful close to your time in the room.

Pack a “first week” box

For teachers returning next year, packing a single, clearly labelled box with your most essential “Week 1” items can be a lifesaver. Include copies of timetables, welcome activities, basic stationery, and anything you know you’ll need immediately. It saves you from scrambling when you return after the break.

Preparing your classroom for handover or summer closure is about more than just tidying up—it’s a chance to reflect on the year, close a chapter with care, and set up a smoother start for whoever comes next. Whether you’re saying goodbye or coming back refreshed in August, a little extra preparation now goes a long way in making the transition seamless and stress-free.