When schools re-open teachers speak. It’s that time of the year when head teachers welcome staff and set down their agenda for the forthcoming year. It’s important that those speeches inspire staff members because they set the tone for the year.
So head teachers should say what is expected of staff and how important their contribution is. Obviously not all teachers are jumping up and down with delight that the vacation is over but a clever head-teacher will ensure they feel valued and challenge them to make the most of the new school year.
It is also, of course, a time to welcome pupils and they are probably even more reluctant than their teachers to be back in school or college. Even so a good speech will emphasise the social aspects of returning to their friends. It will also challenge them to make the most of the school year by studying hard and joining in sporting and other activities.
The right speech will install enthusiasm in listeners. It will encourage them to do their individual and collective best. In other words the beginning of the school year is a time for a wake-up call for pupils and teachers alike.
