Promoting staff wellbeing – leading by example

Mark Solomons, CEO of School Wellbeing Accelerator - an acclaimed wellbeing expert with over 12 years’ experience developing leadership and culture in schools and creator of Welbee a highly effective online evaluation and staff wellbeing improvement tool, ERA Wellbeing Award 2023 and 2022, ERA Primary Tools for Leadership Management and Assessment Award 2023, Bett Finalist 2023, and GESS Judges Commendation Award 2022 discusses how leaders can foster a positive school culture leading by example.

There are competitive, financial and of course moral reasons for schools to build a culture where staff really matter. To create a workplace where they enjoy themselves, are able to do their best work and will stay! At the core of a school’s culture are everyday behaviours and interactions that affect the experience of every staff member.

Although the beginning of the academic year is a busy time for leaders, it is a good time to reflect on climate and culture. Is it evident that staff wellbeing is part of the daily life of the school? Will new staff joining the school recognise it as being a cornerstone feature?

The school’s vision and values are likely to have clear expectations that support the wellbeing of staff and pupils - but do these translate into actions? How can we foster a positive school culture and encourage staff to ‘live’ these values and meet the expectations, so they are simply an integral part of the school experience?

The most effective way is to lead by example.

As a school leader, you have the power to shape your school community, cultivate a culture where compassion and kindness are a priority, and be a positive role model for other staff and pupils.

Often leaders and line managers are driven by the heavy demands placed on them - always racing against the clock. Yet, being there for staff brings significant benefits both short and  long term. It can be a challenge with having to meet timetable commitments, scheduled and unscheduled meetings and interruptions. All staff roles are demanding and they need good leadership, encouragement and support, to deliver their best each day.