Thoughtful end-of-year teacher gift ideas
It’s nearly the end of term, and between trying to eke out the school shoes for just two more weeks and the “What day is sports day again?” chaos, there’s one last thing on many parents’ minds: What gift should we get for the teacher?
The honest answer? You don’t need to. Teachers never expect presents.
But if you and your child would like to say thank you, there are a few things they’ll genuinely appreciate. And no, it’s not another mug. And no, you don’t need to spend a lot of money.
Here are the gifts that teachers say really make them smile….
1. A thoughtful teacher gift: a homemade thank you card
Ask any teacher what’s stuck with them over the years, and it’s not the biscuits or bath sets. It’s the heartfelt cards from their pupils.
A handwritten note or drawing from your child can mean so much. It doesn’t have to be long or perfectly spelled. Even a simple “Thank you for helping me learn to read” is something they’ll treasure.
Need a bit of help with what to say? Here’s our blog on what to write in a teacher thank you card.
2. A memorable teacher gift idea: a nod to them
The really memorable teacher gifts aren’t the expensive ones. They’re the ones that show your child has been paying attention.
Maybe their teacher loves gardening, reading, baking, playing guitar or running? A small gift linked to that hobby can feel incredibly thoughtful. Years later, they will still think of your child every time they use it.
Ask your child what they’ve noticed; What does their teacher like? What makes them laugh or smile? You might be surprised by how observant they’ve been!
3. A useful teacher gift idea: something for the classroom
It’s no secret that teachers often end up buying classroom supplies out of their own pocket. Glue sticks, whiteboard pens, stickers, pencils… all absolute gold dust.
A little bundle of stationery can be a really helpful gift that shows you get what they actually need. And the best bit? You know it will get used, unlike the 47th “Best Teacher” mug quietly gathering dust in the staffroom cupboard.
4. A treasured teacher gift: something your child has made
If your child loves a bit of crafting, this one’s a win–win!
A drawing, a beaded keyring, a painted pebble, a paper bouquet with “Thank you for helping me grow!” written tag – homemade gifts always feel extra special.
They’re personal, thoughtful and something your child can feel really proud of making themselves.
5. A sharing gift: something for the whole school team
It’s not just the class teacher who’s helped your child this year. Office staff, lunchtime supervisors, teaching assistants and cleaners all play a part too. If you’d like to say thank you to the wider team, a gift that can be shared around is a lovely gesture.
A box of biscuits, a pun-filled punnet of strawberries (“Thanks berry much!”), or a pack of fancy teabags with a note that says “Enjoy a nice cuppa, you’ve earned it!” could all go down well.
Just make sure to take it in with plenty of time for them to be enjoyed before the final bell rings.
6. A flexible gift: a voucher to choose their own treat
If in doubt, a small voucher is always a safe and appreciated option. It gives teachers the freedom to treat themselves to something they actually want. Whether that’s a fancy coffee, a new book, a few of their favourite snacks for the summer holidays or even some classroom supplies!
It doesn’t need to be much. Even a few pounds can feel like a really thoughtful gesture.
7. A bonus teacher gift: introduce them to Busy Things!
Make next school year easier for your child’s teacher by introducing them to Busy Things!
Packed with fun, curriculum-linked games, it’s loved by teachers and kids alike. Trusted by thousands of schools, if your school isn’t using Busy Things yet, it’s time to let your teacher in on the secret!
Send them this link so they can try the school version free over the summer: Try Busy Things for Schools free!
AND you can keep your child’s brain buzzing all summer long with the family version of Busy Things – a bonus teacher gift, knowing your child will be practising all the skills that they’ve learned this year: Get 2 months of Busy Things at only £4.49 this summer!
The best teacher gift? Feeling appreciated!
You don’t need to spend much on a teacher gift, or anything at all. What teachers remember most are the kind, thoughtful gestures that show that their efforts are recognised and appreciated.
So if all you do is sit down together and help your child write a heartfelt message, that’s more than enough!
But if you’d like to go a little further, hopefully this list has sparked a few ideas that feel a bit more personal than the usual bottle of wine or box of chocolates (though let’s be honest, those won’t go to waste either!).
You might find our blog What to write in a teacher thank you card useful.