It can be helpful to start the year off with a few weeks of bootcamp as training for new staff and a refresher for the returning staff. I usually start this off by covering the staff manual, and then let the editors teach the rest of the topics themselves.
They say that you know you really have learned something when you can teach it to someone else, so I think this is a great opportunity to have your editors lead these sessions. At first it can be a little nerve-racking to let go, but it can also be really empowering when they realize the publication is really in their hands.
Preparing for their mini-lesson will help them to remember how they felt when they were new on staff and be sure to cover all the little things they’ve learned along the way. (Be sure to pay close attention to their lesson and make sure they aren’t teaching bad habits/shortcuts and don’t leave anything out that is important.)
