Staff Wellbeing
‘At this time of immense stress children have a right to expect that their teachers are well supported. This [supporting teachers] directly benefits children and young people not just in their education the quality they receive but also in their own wellbeing and the sense of support they experience.
Professor Peter Fonagy, Chief Executive of the Anna Freud Centre.
The wellbeing and morale of staff plays a huge role in the overall feel and wellbeing of the school and is an essential factor in providing the best support and teaching to pupils. Recognising the importance and prioritising staff wellbeing by providing the right environment, support structures and processes, schools can help to minimise stress, help staff feel valued, and increase job satisfaction. In creating a culture and ethos that looks after wellbeing, it is also important that this is role modelled to pupils by adults in the school, and indeed to staff by Senior Leadership.
How can schools promote staff wellbeing?
- Create a culture and ethos that is positive and motivational
- Foster trusting, empathetic, and caring relationships
- Communicate frequently and effectively and encourage this between staff
- Provide frequent opportunities for feedback and listen to staff needs
- Provide staff with opportunities to engage in self-care activities
- Promote and facilitate good health and wellbeing activities amongst staff e.g., remain hydrated, promote good nutrition, encourage group activities, develop buddying system
- Be alert to signs of stress and pressure amongst staff
- Role–model the culture and ethos wanted in the staff community
- Acknowledge effort, successes, and hard work
- Provide reflective spaces to work through challenges and difficult situations
- Ensure staff are provided with the skills and training they need to deliver what is asked and
Essential signposting
Every Mind Matters Self-Care Tool – PHE School Zone
Microaggressions: Staff Meeting Presentation and Guidance – Anna Freud
Guide to Supporting Staff Wellbeing in School – Anna Freud
10 Steps for School Staff Wellbeing – Anna Freud
Bullying and Harassment of Teachers and Education Staff – Education Support
Talkworks – free, confidential service for people aged 18+ in Devon, helping you to feel better and giving you the tools and techniques to improve mental and physical wellbeing.
First Response Service – support for anyone 18+ experiencing a mental health crisis, or who have concerns about someone else’s (18+) mental wellbeing. Providing access to mental health care, advice, and guidance 24/7 from Devon Partnership NHS Trust.
