Kickstarting the School Year: Fun Icebreaker Activities for Classrooms

Wednesday, 4 February 2026

Icebreakers are a great way for teachers to help alleviate any stress in the classroom at the beginning of a new school year. Here are some activities for both primary and secondary classrooms.

Two Truths and a Tall Tale  A classic with a twist. Students share two true facts about themselves and one made‑up “tall tale.” The class guesses which one is the lie. It’s light, funny and a great way to learn quirky facts about each other.

Why it works:

• Encourages speaking and listening
• Builds confidence
• Gets students laughing together

The Aussie Map Challenge  Place a large map of Australia on the wall. Ask students to place a sticky note on a location that’s meaningful to them — where they were born, a favourite holiday spot or somewhere they’d love to visit.

Why it works:

• Celebrates diversity and shared experiences
• Encourages storytelling

Find Someone Who… (Back‑to‑School Edition)  Create a bingo‑style sheet with prompts like:

• Find someone who has a pet
• Find someone who loves footy
• Find someone who can speak another language
• Find someone who likes Vegemite

Students mingle to complete their sheet.

Why it works:

• Gets students moving
• Helps them discover common interests
• Perfect for breaking down social barriers

The Paper Plane Introductions  Give each student a blank sheet of paper. They write their name and three fun facts, fold it into a paper plane and launch it across the room. Students pick up a random plane and read the facts out loud, then try to find the owner.

Why it works:

• Adds movement and excitement
• Removes pressure from speaking about themselves directly
• Works well for shy students

Class Playlist: The Soundtrack of Our Year  Ask students to share a song that represents them — something they love, something that motivates them or something that reminds them of summer holidays. Create a shared “Class Playlist” to play during transitions or quiet work time.

Why it works:

• Builds culture and connection
• Gives students ownership of the classroom environment
• Encourages respectful sharing of tastes and identities

The Marshmallow Tower Challenge  In small groups, students build the tallest free‑standing tower using only:

• 20 pieces of spaghetti
• 1 metre of sticky tape
• 1 metre of string
• 1 marshmallow (which must sit on top)

Why it works:

• Encourages teamwork and problem‑solving
• Highlights leadership and collaboration styles
• Great for STEM‑focused classrooms

“All About Me” Gallery Walk  Students create a mini‑poster with drawings, words or symbols that represent who they are. Display them around the room and run a gallery walk where students leave positive comments on sticky notes.

Why it works:

• Builds confidence and pride
• Helps teachers learn about students quickly
• Creates an instant sense of community

Would You Rather… Aussie Edition  Pose fun, localised questions such as:

• Would you rather spend a day at the beach or in the bush?
• Would you rather have a pet koala or a pet quokka?
• Would you rather eat fairy bread or lamingtons for the rest of your life?

Students move to different corners of the room based on their choice.

Why it works:

• Quick, energetic and easy
• Encourages movement and discussion
• Perfect for all ages

Icebreakers aren’t just games — they’re the foundation of a positive classroom culture. When students feel safe, seen and connected, they’re more willing to participate, take risks and support one another.

Starting the year with joy and connection helps create a learning environment where everyone can thrive.