🍎 Top 10 Teacher Essentials for 2025 (Ireland Edition)

well-prepared teacher isn’t just armed with lesson plans—they’re stocked with the right tools to manage the classroom, spark creativity, and stay organised. Whether you’re teaching Junior Infants or 6th Class, this list will help you feel more confident heading into the new school year.

These Top 10 Teacher Essentials have been curated with help from real Irish teachers, and all are available at iSchool.ie—your one-stop shop for school and classroom supplies.

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✨ 1. Whiteboard Markers (That Actually Last!)

Dry-wipe markers are a teacher’s daily workhorse. Choose ones with:

• Bold colours

• Low-odour ink

• Long-lasting tips

Best picks: Staedtler Lumocolor, BIC Velleda

Pro tip: Keep spares in your drawer—you’ll thank yourself mid-lesson!

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🗂️ 2. Durable A4 Folders & Poly Pockets

Organising handouts, assessments, IEPs, and notes is easier with:

• Colour-coded folders (e.g. red = homework, green = SEN)

• Heavy-duty plastic wallets

iSchool.ie carries folders in multipacks so you can separate by subject or class level.

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✏️ 3. Class Pack of Pencils, Sharpeners & Rubbers

Whether it’s your “borrowing box” or just backups for forgetful students, every teacher needs:

• A bulk pencil set (HB or B)

• A few decent sharpeners with shavings containers

• Erasers that don’t smudge!

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📏 4. Rulers, Scissors & Glue Sticks

These core items vanish quickly in busy classrooms. Have a teacher-only stash of:

• Metal or plastic rulers (30cm)

• Child-safe scissors (plus adult pair!)

• Large glue sticks (Pritt or equivalent)

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📚 5. Copy Books for Planning & Notes

Even if your school uses digital platforms, many teachers still prefer physical:

• Planning copies (A4 or B4 ruled)

• Meeting notes books

• Handwriting practice books for support groups

We recommend Aisling Stationery for quality & durability.

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🛠️ 6. Classroom Tools for Display & Organisation

Don't overlook:

• Blu Tack or magnetic strips for posters

• Labels for books, trays, and classroom zones

• Laminator pouches & paper trimmers (if your school allows)

"My label maker was the best investment of 2024." – Gráinne, 1st Class Teacher

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🪑 7. Teacher’s Desk Organiser

You’ll save time (and sanity) with:

• Pen holders

• Drawer trays for sorting notes, rewards, and USB keys

• A labelled box or pouch for each subject

Bonus: Add a weekly planner to track lessons and staff meetings.

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🎨 8. Arts & Crafts Essentials

A creative classroom thrives with access to:

• Washable markers and colouring pencils

• Pipe cleaners, lollipop sticks, googly eyes

• Jumbo paints and brushes

• A protective table covering or art mat

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💌 9. Positive Reinforcement Tools

Keep morale high with:

• Stickers (smiley faces, stars, themed rewards)

• Stampers (“Well Done!”, “Keep Going!”)

• Mini certificates for reading, kindness or effort

These little touches go a long way—especially in junior classes.

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🧘 10. Teacher Wellbeing Toolkit

Your mental load matters too. Consider:

• A reusable water bottle (stay hydrated!)

• Desk plant or diffuser for calm

• A small stash of emergency chocolate or tea

• A journal or mindfulness notebook

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✅ Get Everything in One Place

iSchool.ie offers: 🛒 Shop Teacher Essentials Now →

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💬 Final Thoughts

A smooth year starts with a well-stocked desk and a confident teacher. These essentials aren’t just tools—they’re supports for your teaching journey.

Whether you're newly qualified or a classroom veteran, having these items on hand will help you stay organised, creative, and energised in 2025.