No matter where you are, what your age is, whether you're male, female or other... first impressions do matter, so make them good ones. Things to consider when starting at a new school include, first and foremost, your identity. Who do you want to be? Or rather, how do you want others to see you? You need to decide whether you want to be fun loving, bubbly, over zealous new kid on the block... or the confident, approachable professional... or anything in between. Just remember, that you need to be true to yourself, don't try to be something you're not, because you will fail.

Dress appropriately. By this, I do not mean formal attire everyday. No. Schools, particularly in low socio-economic regions will not think any better of you if you rub your wealth, wisdom and success in their proverbial faces. So don't do it. What you should be doing, is making sure that your dress code reflects the ethos of the school and more to the point the ethos of the profession. You are not there to look pretty, or be popular, you're there to set a good example for your colleagues, you students and the wider community. Without meaning to be sexist, women are the worst offenders of the dress code. Low cut blouses or short skirts, high heels, tacky stockings, tight fitting clothes and see through garments without the appropriate underwear, are not acceptable.

While men don't have this issue, it's still recommended you see a professional stylist if attempting to break the mould and wear anything other than a professional shirt and tie with appropriate coats, scarves, cloaks or robes. Note: Men in shorts is never appropriate, unless you are a care taker or grounds keeper – in which case you shouldn't bother reading this anyway, or if you specialise in Herbology, where getting a bit of sunshine is perfectly acceptable.

Dress alone won't save you. As a professional, it would be prudent to be well groomed. Don't take this to mean you need to be a Veela, because realistically, not everyone can be. The point is to keep facial hair to a minimum, make sure your hair is manageable and at an appropriate length and colour. Blue, green or pink are NEVER appropriate colours unless it's for a charitable occasion.

Footwear is also essential to making a good first impression. Women, don't resort to wearing sky-high heels that you can barely walk in, because holding people back is never and will never be a desirable characteristic. Muddy, dusty, scuffed boots or shoes are also a big mistake. If you don't already know this, then you really do need as much help as you can get. Clean, neat, understated shoes is a must. Nothing flashy or complicated, no bright colours or tacky flowers with sequins. Ever heard the expression 'keep it simple stupid'?