As we lean into the last quarter of the year, and with schools opening their gates on 6 October, we have rounded up a few gift ideas for National Teachers’ Day (normally celebrated on 5 October). After a year of “Ma’am, I forgot my homework”, marking mountains of work and keeping the classroom chaos under control, teachers deserve more than a shiny red apple.
(We have identified gifts that are available for purchase over the weekend at physical stores, because we understand that last-minute rush all too well!)
1. Because “I need a holiday” isn’t always an option
Sloom Height-Adjustable Memory Foam Pillow | From R799
For the teacher whose daily schedule has them counting down to bedtime. Sloom’s height-adjustable, hypoallergenic Memory Foam Pillow is basically a little invitation to switch off, sink in, and forget about tomorrow’s lesson plan, even if just for eight hours.
Available online at www.sloom.co.za
2. A little something sweet for someone who deals with the class every day
Hive & Earth Sustainable Honey | R249
For the teacher who has perfected the art of keeping the peace, a jar of sustainably produced, beautifully crafted honey feels like a pretty sweet thank-you. It’s local, traceable, and makes an easy addition to a curated gift hamper.
Because “thanks for everything” tastes better with honey.
Available at Poetry.
3. For the teacher whose handbag is basically a portable classroom
Thandana Jelly Clear View Tote | R999
Worksheets? Check. Snacks? Check. Sunscreen? Probably. Three pens that mysteriously don’t belong to them? Almost certainly. The Jelly Clear View Tote is spacious enough for all those teacher essentials and stylish enough to leave the classroom behind.
Available from thandana.co.za or in-store at the Biscuit Mill in Cape Town, or at their Factory Store in Durban.
4. For surviving the school day, one bite at a time
Holland Bakery ‘Reuse Stroopwafel’ | R65
Sometimes you don’t need another motivational quote. You need caramel.
Holland Bakery’s Giant Stroopwafel takes the classic Stroopwafel and makes it giant. Filled with sweet cinnamon-infused caramel and packaged in a handy envelope with space for a personal note, it’s a small gift with serious snack-time potential.
Available online at hollandbakery.co.za or in-store at Holland Bakery Pampoenkraal Laan, Durbanville or Holland Bakery Tanzanite.
5. For the “do not speak to me until I’ve had my tea” teacher
LMC Cherry & Hibiscus Rooibos | R69
LMC Cherry & Hibiscus Rooibos is a vibrant blend of rooibos, rose petals, hibiscus and cherry flavouring. A fruity tea with floral notes and a hint of tartness. Rooibos and hibiscus are high in antioxidants and help support daily well-being. Delicious hot or iced.
This offering from LMC has won Silver at the 2026 Excellent Taste Awards. Products are evaluated using the Sensory Quality System, a structured sensory evaluation that assesses taste, aroma, texture, and overall product quality.
Available at @Home, Poetry and Yuppiechef stores.
6. For the teacher who has a stationery collection worthy of its own filing system
Thandana Triple Zip Pencil Case | R412.34
Because one pencil case is clearly never enough.
With three zip compartments, space for a 30cm ruler and plenty of room for all those pens, pencils and highlighters, this is a practical upgrade for the teacher who takes stationery very seriously.
Available from thandana.co.za or in-store at the Biscuit Mill in Cape Town, or in Durban at their Factory Store.
Whether it’s something sweet, something practical, or something that encourages them to put their feet up, this Teachers’ Day is the perfect excuse to say thank you for making a difference, one school day at a time!