Validator report

28 February 2025

SWA-St Peter's RC High School-M12 4WA-28/Feb/2025

Areas for further development
The school is mindful that they need to maintain the work that they have started, so this will form the basis for wellbeing work in the future. Whatever happens, the team is keen to continue to advocate for all staff in school. The school might like to investigate ways to encourage staff to recognise intrinsic reward systems for themselves and to
celebrate those in line with extrinsic rewards.
Award term ref
Confirm the recommendation
1
Overall comments
An exemplary portfolio of evidence from a school that takes staff wellbeing seriously. The comparable data that has been provided offers real insight into the staff experience at the school. The school identified areas to improve and has worked methodically and consistently to ensure that they have been fulfilled. A succinct range of evidence was shown, with appropriate and relevant commentary, that demonstrated what the school had put in place over time. The impact of the measures taken is demonstrated clearly and concisely. Staff wellbeing has improved across the whole school community because of the simple, effective measures that have been put in place by the dedicated team. Well done!
School ref
Validator benchmark comments
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Meaningful and impactful changes to expectations places on staff across the school calendar, as well as a reduction in administrative functions, have resulted in the majority of staff feeling that their workload is now more manageable. This is in contrast to the 'pre-intervention' measures.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Numerous changes have taken place since the school embarked on the staff wellbeing award in order to ensure a change in focus, including the appointment of a Wellbeing lead. The evidence provided is clear and shows the impact of the changes in a helpful and authentic way. Most staff now believe the current culture in school encourages open discussion about mental health, which promotes a more supportive staff community.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Feedback from many staff members has shown that the changes made have been a welcome addition to school life - and the robust data set supports this. There are plans in place to continue to make improvements in this area in the future, particularly with the introduction of the dedicated Wellbeing lead role now in place.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
While there was already some measures in place, the introduction of more tangible appreciation measures has had a more definable and sustainable impact on staff wellbeing, ensuring that the majority of staff feel valued, seen and
heard. Many staff members have expressed how much they appreciate the efforts made by SLT in particular.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Training and development was identified as a way to support staff in this area, and the school provided various courses as a result. The reduction of mass emails and the email time-bound expectations have helped to assure staff that a better work-life balance is achievable and is supported by SLT.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
There has been a clear progression from when the school started their staff wellbeing journey to where they have got to now, and they have acknowledged how the award has offered structure to the process. Staff members feel reassured about the presence of the new measures in place, such as two new Mental Health First Aiders who provide immediate support for staff.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
A range of training opportunities is available for all staff to make use of as they see fit. The availability of training and development opportunities has meant that staff now view their progression as important to school life. There are clear parameters set in the school's recruitment brochure that lets applicants know the wider holistic aspects of the school. Staff retention remains high.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
An increased sense of autonomy has enabled staff to feel like they have more of a voice in school life, and this has created a better sense of empowerment. Staff are now taking on more responsibility within their own departments, and with encouragement from SLT, it is expected that this will continue and develop further.
Validator recommendation
I recommend that the school is accredited for this award
Validation confirm date
28/Feb/2025
Product attribute ref
Gold