Do you have a teacher in your life?
World Teachers’ Day is a great chance to recognise the incredible work teachers do every day – guiding future generations and often going above and beyond for their students. In Australia, it’s celebrated on the last Friday of October, making it the perfect time to show a little extra appreciation.
Instead of the usual mug, box of chocolates, or the practical but impersonal gift card, why not surprise them with something that will show them you know them a little better?
We’ve compiled unique and personalised gifts for teachers that will make their work days a little brighter.
Our picks come from knowing that teachers are often just too busy to treat themselves to the tools that make planning, organising, and grading a little more enjoyable – so we asked the teachers in our lives, and they told us exactly what they’d love!
1. Portable Organisers
Teachers always carry a little bit of everything with them – papers, books, pens, snacks, you name it. A stylish tote bag or a high quality leather or canvas pen case makes their life easier and their commute more enjoyable. Unlike the more typical “expendable” gifts, these are pieces they’ll use for years to come.
This is for a teacher you know well – their style, their favourite colours, or what they’re always juggling – a chance to give them something that feels truly personal. It shows effort, care, and attention, and gives them a gift they’ll reach for every single day.
2. Desk Organisers
On the other hand, a teacher’s desk is their command centre.
Help them keep it tidy and inspiring with a nice stationery box, pen pot, or elegant folders. Our Bookbinders Design cloth-covered organisation range features a timeless design and durable build, and they are stylish enough to elevate even the busiest desk. A well-placed ceramic pen stand or a cool stationery catch-all can make grading papers and planning lessons feel a little more enjoyable.
You can also consider ring binders – extremely useful for keeping lessons and handouts organised, but when it’s a beautifully designed one rather than the standard office style they’ve had for years, it becomes a little treat on the desk.
Letter trays are another great option for keeping incoming papers in order with a touch of style.
3. Just a (Very Good) Pen
Since they are constantly writing and scribbling notes, every teacher has their writing preference. And a really good pen can feel like a true luxury.
- If you know they enjoy fountain pens, treat them to a premium fountain pen.
- If they’re more practical, a high-quality ballpoint, like a Caran d'Ache will be their everyday go-to.
- And for the pencil lovers, nothing beats the smooth glide of Blackwing or Mitsubishi pencils.
The beauty of gifting a writing instrument is that it’s actually quite a personal gift. Choose based on what you know they use most – It shows you notice the details, and gives them something they’ll reach for every single day.
4. Planning tools
Teachers juggle lesson plans, schedules, and endless to-do lists. A well-designed planner is perfect for the new academic year. Pair it with a handy notepad for quick reminders, and you’ll be giving them the gift of peace of mind.
You can make it even more personal by choosing a format that matches how they like to organise their time. Are they a weekly planner person who likes to see the bigger picture? Do they prefer monthly layouts for long-term planning? Or do they rely on a daily planner to stay on top of the details? Knowing their style adds an extra layer of thoughtfulness.
A fancy calendar is always a good idea, especially when paired with fun tools like organisation stickers or planner stamps. These little extras make scheduling and marking dates far more enjoyable, and they also help with personalisation – simply choose a style you know they might enjoy.
5. Gift for the prep pro: Quality Scissors
It may sound simple, but for teachers of younger children who often cut, paste, and prepare learning materials, a good pair of scissors is a lifesaver. Choose a pair with sharp blades and a comfortable grip, and they’ll thank you every time they prep a classroom project.
6. Always in High Hemand: Highlighters & Markers
Did you know many teachers are moving away from the traditional red pen? Instead, they use highlighters and fineliners in different colours to mark work, colour-code, and make feedback more engaging.
A set of Mildliners or premium highlighters makes a more casual, practical gift. Teachers often already know which colour palettes they prefer, so it’s a good idea to choose tones that match their style – just make sure they’re colours that still stand out clearly on the page.
Wrapping It Up
The best gifts for teachers are personalised, practical, and a little special at the same time. By choosing something that matches their habits and their style – be it a fancy sleek pen, a planner tailored to their busy schedule, or colourful highlighters – you’re showing genuine appreciation and making easier and more enjoyable the work they do every single day.
Questions? We’d love to hear from you, so don’t be shy! Contact us on Facebook, Instagram or via email at info@bookbindersdesign.com.au
