There’s something deeply nostalgic and comforting about this time of year. Even if you don’t work in education—or haven’t had school-age children in years—you probably still feel it. That end-of-term energy. The collective exhale. The invitation to rest.
Maybe it’s something we never quite outgrow. The rhythm of the school calendar stays embedded in our cultural clock. And for me, it’s especially present.
I live and work inside that cycle:
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I run a school.
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I’m raising a university student who’s home for the summer.
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My husband works in education too.
So yes, I feel the shift that happens when the summer holidays arrive. But this year, that shift feels different. Heavier.
Because this time, it’s not just the usual end-of-year fatigue. It’s something deeper: a growing concern about the direction of the education system itself.
What I’m Seeing Inside the System
Over the past year, I’ve noticed some troubling patterns—things that are subtly but significantly changing the way schools operate and how students experience learning.
1. Funding shifts that hurt, not help.
With financial control moving more locally, schools are often left to manage their own payroll. That might sound efficient on paper—but in reality, it’s leading to more early-career teachers being hired over seasoned professionals. Not because they’re a better fit, but because they’re less expensive.
We’re losing experience, wisdom, and mentorship in the process.
2. Fewer school trips.
Gone are the days of spontaneous museum outings and adventure days. Health and safety concerns (and, let’s be honest, budget and staffing issues) are limiting these rich, hands-on learning experiences that once brought joy and perspective into the classroom.
3. The quiet removal of creative subjects.
Art, drama, music—they’re slowly slipping down the priority list in favour of “core” subjects. But what message are we sending when we undervalue expression, imagination and emotional literacy?
These aren’t just educational concerns. They’re wellbeing concerns. And if you’re someone working inside the system, I imagine you’re feeling it too.
For the Teachers, Leaders and Support Staff Holding the Fort
If you’re in education—whether you’re a teacher, TA, wellbeing lead, or SLT—I want you to know: I see you.
You’re navigating constant change. Trying to support students with less time, less funding, and fewer resources. And somehow, you’re expected to protect your own wellbeing along the way.
One thing that has helped me (and so many others) is coaching.
No, not becoming a life coach overnight. But bringing coaching skills into your practice:
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Listening deeply
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Asking powerful questions
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Holding space
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Creating clarity
These are skills that benefit students—but also nourish you. They help you reclaim your impact in a system that often feels overwhelming.
Last year, I wrote about how the DofE recognises coaching as a vital, transferable life skill. That tells you something about its value across sectors—and generations.
Summer as a State of Mind
Even if you’re not in education, I believe summer offers us all a moment of reset. A time to reflect, rest, and yes, even rebel a little—against the pace, the pressure, the expectations.
Want to join our waitlist for our next cohort of the Fast Track in Coaching Skills Diploma?