If you’re anything like us, the start of a new term brings a strong urge to organise your classroom — to declutter, label everything in sight, and create the most organised, Pinterest-worthy learning space possible.
But let’s be honest: we don’t always have the time or the budget for a full classroom makeover. The good news? A few small, thoughtful changes can make a surprisingly big difference.
The tips below are practical, budget-friendly, and designed to save your time and your sanity.
1. Use Clear Storage Boxes (and Label Everything)
Clear plastic tubs are a teacher’s best friend. They make it easy to see what’s inside at a glance — no more opening ten lids before you find the glue. Add large, easy-to-read labels to each one using bold fonts or icons for early readers.
Recommended Products: Lifewit 6-Pack Storage Boxes with Latching Lids, NIMBOT Label Maker
2. Create “Zones” in the Classroom
Set up specific areas for reading, art, small group work, and quiet time. This helps pupils understand expectations in each area and keeps clutter under control.
Example zones:
- Calm Corner
- Reading Nook
- Writing Station
- STEM Table
3. Invest in a Rolling Trolley
These are great for moving resources between tables or classrooms. You can use them for guided reading sets, art supplies, or your own personal teacher toolkit.
Recommended Products: Amazon Basics 3-Tier Trolley, IKEA RÅSKOG Trolley
4. Use Drawer Towers for Daily Work
Label drawers Monday through Friday and use them to store worksheets, books, and materials for the week ahead. Prep it all on Friday and thank yourself on Monday morning.
Recommended Product: Really Useful Box Plastic Storage Tower 8×7 Litre Clear Frame with Rainbow Drawers
5. Colour-Code Subjects or Groups
Use colours for folders, trays, and even display borders to indicate subjects or pupil groups. This visual system helps pupils develop independence and saves you from answering “Where does this go?” ten times a day.
6. Use a Digital Planner or Google Calendar
While paper planners are lovely, a digital calendar can help with long-term planning and reminders. Share calendars with your TA or co-teachers to keep everyone in sync.
7. Wall-Mounted File Holders Save Desk Space
Perfect for organising forms, homework folders, or pupils’ work. Hang one near your teacher desk to keep surfaces clear.
Recommended Product: WallDeca Hanging File Wall Organiser
8. Declutter Your Desk Drawer Weekly
Yes, weekly! Pop on a podcast on a Friday afternoon and clear out those mystery notes, paperclips, and stray stickers.
9. Display Work with Purpose
Rotate pupil work often, but make sure your displays have meaning. Use them as working walls, or add QR codes that link to more information (this is especially useful for sharing the learning with parents).
10. Make Organisation a Class Job
Let your pupils help keep things tidy — classroom monitors, paper patrol, supply squad — kids love having a role, and it builds responsibility.
Final Thoughts
If you want to organise your classroom, start small and make changes slowly – it doesn’t have to be Insta-perfect in day. It’s about creating a space that works for you and your pupils — one where things have a place, routines are simple, and you can focus more on teaching (and less on finding your stapler). Naturally these take time to evolve and changes you make today might not work in two months!
Choose one tip to try this week and build from there. Your future self will thank you.
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