13 Jan 2026
As we step into the new year, here’s an invitation to pause, and take a breath. The start of 2026 isn’t just another date on the calendar — it’s a chance to bring in the new with a calmer way of working.
Let’s be honest: the role of exam officer is a demanding one. We all juggle with deadlines, handling data and people. It’s no surprise that our desks become messy, inboxes overflow, while stress builds quietly in the background. But what if things this year could feel different?
This is your guide to decluttering your space, reviewing your systems, and looking at how you manage your working day! Small changes now can make a big difference to how the rest of your year unfolds — not just in how you work, but in how you feel.
Clear the clutter for an easier mind
Let’s start with the physical. Look around your workspace. Is it helping you focus, or slowing you down?
A cluttered desk can mean moments wasted in looking for things and the danger of low -level stress growing into something bigger. Keeping things more organised could help to cut down some of the chaos that any of your current ways of working might be unknowingly creating in the background.
Start small. Look at anything you could reasonably re-organise more effectively to make paper handling more appealing (nice stationery perhaps). While you’re at it, dig into your email folders and message storage. Unsubscribe from unnecessary emails, organise your folders, and set up simple systems to keep things more productive. Small changes could speed up your working day and save you time for other tasks.
Every bit of decluttering you do of your office space will help you feel more in control and ready to work each time you come to your desk.
Create a Workspace That Works for You
Most of the time we have to use standard office stationery and desk accessories. If possible, consider bringing in some small but positive personal items. Perhaps a favourite light, or an uplifting affirmation. Anything that helps reminds you that you’re on track and you’ve got it covered.
And don’t forget that wall space either. It’s not just for school info. Can you put up a calming poster that brings down your stress levels, just by looking at it? There are many examples available from school suppliers.
Review your systems
Now that your space is set up to give you the best possible flow, look at your systems. Is the way you’re using them still working for you?
Take a moment to reflect on the past year. What went well? What consistently caused headaches or last-minute scrambles? Use that to tweak how you manage your exam administration this year.
Maybe it’s time to automate a few repetitive tasks and think about how you communicate within your Team. Could a shared calendar help? Would templates reduce repetitive emails? Sometimes the smallest tweaks have the biggest payoffs.
We all know the key dates we need in our diaries, so setting up smooth processes ahead of time means fewer surprises later. You know better than anyone that having to go into crisis management mode is no fun during exam season. Do what you can now to avoid it down the line.
Share any a-ha ideas with your Team when you find ways that help you all work together better.
Remember: you work with people, not just processes
Our role is often seen as logistical, but we’re the bridge between our exam system, staff and students. When we stay calm it flows out to students, staff and parents. You’ll find that has a positive energy on what you do and how that is felt in your department.
How you communicate within these areas will make a big different to the results you get. Don’t be afraid to set clear expectations early on — with teachers, students, and leadership — so everyone knows what’s needed and by when. Be clear and confident about your need for certain information.
You might consider too how you can support students better. Can you offer stress-management tips or mindfulness tools? Can your department share sessions on exam resilience and dealing with panic or ways to stay calm? If this isn’t something you could lead, pass on the idea to the right staff member so they can share them.
And as you’re fine tuning your new 2026 approach to being an exam officer, don’t forget your own wellbeing. Build a simple self-care plan that protects your energy — whether that’s a daily walk, regular breaks, or simply saying “no” when you’re stretched too thin.
Set Your Intentions for 2026
Finally, take a moment to set some intentions for the year ahead. Think of them as quiet commitments you make with yourself that will help guide your choices this year.
What do you want more of in 2026? Less stress? Better systems or better balance? Or gentler ways of getting things done? Write it down.
Maybe you’ll commit to spending ten minutes each day organising your workspace. Or maybe it’s a weekly check-in to review your priorities. Whatever feels right for you— start small, stay consistent.
Write your own strapline
Lots of schools have strap lines that show others their vision for the future and how they plan to operate. What could your 3 words be? Choose ones that you can look at regularly to keep you focussed when things go pear-shaped. Perhaps make up a Canva poster for your wall with your personal ‘Live, Love, Learn’ words. It won’t be cheesy if it strikes a chord with you!
Get it on your screensaver so you’re ready for the term.
Here’s to a Fresh Start
What’s one change you’ll make today to support you in the new academic year?
When you make small changes and commit to them, big things can happen.
I work with schools to prepare their students for the mental challenge of exams. I offer 1-day CPD workshops and Inset Days Training for schools to help build Teacher and Student Resilience to exam stress.
Want me to work with your staff on Exam Stress and Thinking Skills? Download my CPD pack at www.geraldinejozefiak.com/cpd
Contact me at hello@geraldinejozefiak.com