Sharing Good Practice many of which can be seen in what schools do as part of their everyday work . Beginning with a simple audit to recognise where wellbeing is promoted well , is the easiest way to start .
What are the biggest challenges when initiating a wellbeing strategy throughout a school community ?
Making sure it isn ’ t seen as something extra to do . Staff are busy , and children can feel overwhelmed by work at times , especially now that some schools are working remotely . Reminding community members that taking action towards wellbeing can simply be noticing what you do that helps , and what you do that doesn ’ t ( and then finding ways to adapt your behaviour ), which though apparently simple can be a powerful strategy .
Complete ‘ buy-in ’ and support from management in what they say and do is crucial . Embarrassment or an apologetic tone around activities to do with wellbeing can send the wrong message and undermine all the great work that is going on . That said , it is important to acknowledge that not everyone will be comfortable talking about and promoting wellbeing , so make sure you have the right people acting as champions , whilst reassuring staff , that nobody will be coerced into anything that makes them feel uncomfortable .
Ensuring parents are on board through parent partnership projects and regular , effective use of social media , can also draw the school community even closer together with the aim of promoting what ’ s important .
effective school wellbeing strategy ?
1 . A committed wellbeing champion . Someone who is passionate about wellbeing for all , has a positive attitude and whose enthusiasm is infectious !
2 . A program that is simple and accessible by all members of the community , at the level they are comfortable with
3 . Communication |
channels |
that |
allow for the sharing of information , |
conversations , |
support |
and |
celebration |
|
|
How do you ensure wellbeing for staff remains a priority in a fast-paced and busy environment ?
Know your school ’ s calendar well and pinpoint particularly busy periods in advance . Where possible , cancel any unnecessary meetings and ensure a firm vision of striving towards achieving wellbeing is communicated at all levels of leadership within the school . At the same time , make sure it is clear that wellbeing is not something that is provided by management for staff . Simple reminders to staff to look out for each other , along with plans to check in with new staff several months after their induction , are small practical ways to ensure the focus remains strong . Overall , use your senses to listen , watch and feel what is going on . Keep communication channels open . If somebody ’ s wellbeing is being negatively affected , ensure that supported is provided , and if necessary , assist in identifying steps to improve things . Though we have individual responsibilities , supporting each other to improve and make this message clear at all levels within the school , is important .
What are the most obvious benefits to growing a wellbeing strategy throughout a school community ?
Improved learning outcomes , skills for life and a happier school community ! Who doesn ’ t want to wake up and look forward to the day ahead , knowing it will bring challenges , connection , satisfaction and fulfilment ?
Please contact Mrs Rachel Batty at rbatty @ tes . edu . kw if you would like further specific information regarding the wellbeing programme at TES , would like to visit us or would appreciate a chat about our journey so far .
Change never happens overnight , so have enough patience to see your wellbeing strategy take root and bloom slowly but surely .
What are the three essential resources to consider for an
Rachel Batty is an experienced educator and pastoral leader at TES . She has enjoyed working in a range of settings in the UK and internationally . She keeps the wellbeing of the child at the heart of what she does whether teaching music to infants , drama to KS3 or languages at A level . An innovative and passionate consultant , Rachel welcomes opportunities to help others fine-tune their wellbeing initiatives and invites you to get in touch .
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