With Christmas fast approaching, parents looking to gift school staff a festive gift at the end of the Winter term should know that there’s one gift teachers like the least
Schools across the UK will break up for Christmas sooner than you think, as we’re already drawing closer to the last half-term break before the festive season. But the holidays aren’t just time off for students; they give teachers a much-needed break.
Whilst it’s not compulsory, many parents opt to give their child’s teacher a small festive gift as a gesture of gratitude. However, selecting something appropriate for someone who isn’t a mate or relative can prove challenging.
From homemade cards and chocolates to candles and even Stanley Cups, teachers often find themselves heading home with a car boot crammed with presents.
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Of course, an affordable and simple option that can be just as meaningful as a gift and personalised to be as unique as you’d like is a touching thank you card, but if you’re looking for suggestions of something more material to bestow before the festive period, we’ve listed six that are sure to be a hit.
Is there something you shouldn’t buy? According to our Editorial Director’s teacher sister, while they massively appreciate any gifts from their students and their families, there is one thing you may want to avoid gifting teachers – chocolate, because apparently they get given so much of it.
Meanwhile, The Mirror reported that one teacher has warned parents against getting certain gifts for school staff, as receiving the same present from 30 kids in the class can end up being quite repetitive.
Lucinda Chambers, a seasoned teacher with over 15 years of experience, shared her insights with Mamma Mia, suggesting that a simple thank you is often enough. But for those who wish to give something more, Lucinda offered some advice on what to avoid.
One thing she advises against is gifting mugs, as teachers tend to receive them far too often. Instead, she suggests considering a reusable drinks bottle or coffee cup as a thoughtful alternative.
Additionally, Lucinda warns that lotions and other skincare products aren’t typically favoured by teachers. She explained: “A beautifully scented hand cream or shower gel is a lovely thought, but what ‘smells good’ is highly personal, not to mention that some teachers may have highly sensitive skin.”
And finally, although it might seem like a classic gift, she concurs that many teachers prefer not to receive chocolate or sweets as presents. As surprising as that might sound, some teachers simply aren’t keen on these treats and some are gifted them so often they don’t get through them.
Some top recommendations for gifts include:
- Reusable water bottles – e.g. Stanley Quencher or similar alternative
- Scented candle – maybe lavender or other stress-relieving scents
- Personalised stationary
- Wine, beer or other favourite beverages
- Festive hamper – M&S has a wide range of sweet and savoury hampers
- Something homemade – from a handmade card or homemade treats
Source: Mirror
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