If you think it's been a tough year – what with your little darling's homework related meltdowns, playground politics and that outbreak of nits – spare a thought for their poor teacher
The end of the winter term might be just a flash in the school calendar, but you can bet that for Ms Smith, the four months since the summer holiday have been quite the rollercoaster.
Our teachers are one of our most undervalued resources. Nights spent marking school work and the emotional labour that goes into controlling classes of up to forty (forty!) kids is worth far more than a salary and so, this Christmas, don't forget to pop something in the trolley for your kids' teachers.
And there's definitely no need to break the bank – a little gesture will go a long way for the teacher who is frazzled to the core come the last Friday before the end of term.
Sending your little one in with an industrial sized bottle of Gordon's might not be an option, so we've rounded up some of the most teacher-friendly options from the high street and beyond to let them know you care. Oh, and a home-made Christmas card with a sweet note from you and the kids will most definitely get a spot on their fridge, too.
Merry Christmas to all the hardworking teachers out there. We salute you.
Best Christmas presents for teachers:
Teachers xmas presents
1 of 11Seed and Bean chocolate bars
These are chocolate bars, but not as we (generally) know them. Seed and Bean offer an enticing selection including 15 vegan certified slabs of FIT. We can personally attest that the coconut and raspberry one is amazing. Prices start at a very pocket money friendly £2.69 for 85g bars and they're available from Wholefoods, Planet Organic, Abel and Cole and online. Seed and Bean chocolate bars, Seed and Bean, £2.69.
2 of 11'Put your feet up' socks
Let's be honest, you can't go wrong with a pair of socks. But this pair are more than just socks, they come personalised with your teacher's name - recognising that they deserve a well earned break after the term. The perfect Christmas present.'Put your feet up' socks, Not On The Highstreet, £14
3 of 11Relaxation gift set
In keeping with the relaxation theme, this beautiful box is perfect for an overworked teacher who needs a night in of luxury pampering. And again, made even more special as it's personalised!Personalised Relaxation Gift Set, BANKS-LYON BOTANICAL, £26
4 of 11Teacher's measures wine glass
Such a great present - what teacher wouldn't enjoy this? A special wine glass mapping out the measurements you need, depending on where you are in the school year... Beginning of term? Just a tipple. Half term? A medium to large glass. End of term - a very substantial glass of wine.Teacher's Measures Wine Glass, Giftstore.co.uk, £9.99
5 of 11'Thank you' plant pot
This gorgeous plant pot is a unique present to thank a teacher for all his/her hard work. It's a lovely message to receive and they'll think of your child every time they plant something. We love it.Teacher's Thank You Plant Pot, Etsy, £12
6 of 11Sass & Belle flamingo mug
The cutest mug on the market at the moment. This flamingo from Sass & Belle can be her classroom companion for the countless cups of tea and coffee consumed throughout the school day. Sass & Belle Flamingo mug, ASOS, £7.50
7 of 11Sharpies galore
Believe it or not, teachers actually want supplies for Christmas! Colouring pens are expensive and get used up quickly, so it's every teacher's dream to recieve a jumbo pack of assorted sharpies. Trust us, teachers love stationery. Grab them on sale for £9.99 now at Rymans.Sharpie Permanent Markers Pack of 28, Rymans, £9.99
8 of 11Home made Christmas cookies
Now we all know Christmas is an expensive time, so why not bake some cookies for your child's teacher, and get your little one to decorate them. No one's going to turn down a freshly baked Christmas tree, especially with your tot's sweet decorating skills to top it off.7 Christmas Cookie Cutters, Amazon, £5.50
9 of 11Personalised PG Tips gift set
Don't let your teacher lose their cup in the staff room ever again with this personalised PG tips gift set - complete with a personalised mug, egg cup and 40 tea bags. PG tips gift-set, Personalisedpgtips.co.uk, £11.99
10 of 11Konditor & Cook mince pies
You'll be marked A* in presents after you gift the teacher Konditor & Cook's famously DELICIOUS mince pies - made with the finest all-butter pastry and filled with a luxurious mincemeat.Mince Pies Gift Box of 6, Konditor & Cook, £12.00
11 of 11Charbonnel et Walker chocolate selection
You'll become teacher's pet when you give them a delicious new selection of 9 milk and dark chocolates from luxury chocolatier, Charbonnel et Walker. Charbonnel et Walker Union Jack Milk and Dark Chocolate Selection, £14.00, John Lewis
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Never ones to leave a potato challenge, we've also tested the weirdest Christmas crisps. From fancy pants truffle to err, roughage-filled, Brussels sprouts there's crisps to suit every festive occasion. That involves munching crisps.
We also checked out the best vegetarian and vegan Christmas sandwiches on the high street. Be prepared for a whole lot of Brie and cranberry but also some creative creations including a very passable fake turkey sandwich.
Those thinking ahead to tightening their belts in January may also be interested in the diet tips that helped returning Emmerdale star Lisa Riley lose 12 stone. Or take a look at how ex Coronation Street star Catherine Tyldesley lost six stonedropping from a dress size 22 to eight.