Children’s messages are best kept in their own words. Parents can be more specific about the difference the teacher made. Staff can thank them as a colleague and a friend.
How to write it
- For young children, let them say it in their own words, even if the spelling wanders.
- Parents: mention a specific change you saw in your child.
- Colleagues: thank them for something they did for the department, not just the pupils.
From children
Thank you for being my teacher. I liked the science lessons best. I will miss you.
You made me love reading. Thank you!
Thank you for helping me when I was stuck in maths. Good luck at your new school!
You are the best teacher ever. Please come back and visit.
Thank you for always being kind to me.
From parents
Our daughter went from dreading school to talking about your class every evening. Thank you.
Thank you for seeing the best in our son and helping him see it too.
Your patience and care have made a real difference to our family. Good luck in your new school.
We’re so grateful for the year you gave our child. Your new pupils are very lucky.
Thank you for the weekly updates, the extra help, and the endless encouragement.
From fellow teachers
The staff room will be a lot less fun without you. Good luck in the new post!
Thank you for sharing your resources, your ideas, and your biscuits.
You made our department a better place to teach. Wishing you every success.
Thank you for being the colleague everyone went to for advice. We’ll miss you.
Your new school is lucky. Don’t forget us at the end of term.
For a retiring teacher
Thirty years of lessons, and thousands of pupils who remember you. Enjoy every moment of retirement.
Thank you for a career spent making children feel capable. Happy retirement!
You’ve earned every lie-in. Thank you for everything you’ve given this school.
The school bell will ring without you, but it won’t sound the same.
What to avoid
- Comments about school politics or the reason for leaving.
- Correcting children’s messages too much — their voice is the point.
Organising the whole card? Our teacher appreciation card guide covers timing and who to invite.