Validator report
02 November 2023
SWA-William Edwards School-RM16 8JN-02/Nov/2023
Areas for further development
Should you choose to reapply for the award again in 2 years’ time, remember to focus specifically on providing evidence of the impact your changes have made. The original survey conducted for the award was detailed and extremely useful in indicating not just what could work better but which specific changes would help - it was good to see so many constructive suggestions and to hear that the school have acted on them. As well as conducting future surveys to track improvements, you could try shorter questionnaires about particular aspects of provision and also evidence improvements through case studies, focus group feedback etc.
Award term ref
Confirm the recommendation
1
Overall comments
Despite working in quite challenging circumstances, the school has clearly prioritised staff wellbeing and the lead, in particular, is passionate and thoughtful about improving provision. The approach is flexible and shows a willingness to try a range of options to find out what works. The school listens to staff and tries hard to meet their needs. Much of the impact evidence came from an extensive questionnaire which, judging by the number of responses, staff had clearly engaged with and significant changes have been made in response to this comments. It is likely that future surveys will show further improvements in feedback.
School ref
Validator benchmark comments
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
The school has made a number of changes in order to support staff wellbeing – including amending marking and feedback policies and switching to a two week half term in the autumn. Staff feedback demonstrates that they appreciate these amendments and benefits.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
The school has introduced a wellbeing policy, significantly improved the staff room and introduced a range of ‘perks’. Many staff have formed ‘coaching pairs’ to support each other. Staff have also been offered ‘reflective discussions' with an outside provider and the feedback from those who have undertaken them is very positive. ‘Come break with me’ session have encouraged more staff to use the staff room and socialise with colleagues.
Comments on impact identified during validation
The school has encouraged staff voice through the use of surveys, suggestion boxes etc and has made a number of changes in response to suggestions received. Mindfulness sessions have been introduced and attendance at social events has improved significantly thanks to a reactive approach which has led leaders to try different times etc to accommodate as many staff as possible. During lockdown, the school made a real effort to maintain staff morale with regular zoom meets, competitions etc and saw relationships develop as a result.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
In a staff survey, a strong majority of staff agree or strongly agree that they feel appreciated at work. 88% report feeling valued and 81% agree that they receive appropriate recognition for their work.
Comments on impact identified during validation
This remains an area for development with staff less positive about this than other aspects of provision. However, considerable progress has been made – there is flexible working and changes to CPD processes have reduced the number of meetings and, with staff working in pairs or smaller groups, introduced more flexibility. Alterations to marking systems have also reduced these commitments. Notably, staff are very positive about how the school supports those with caring responsibilities.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
A majority of staff agree that the school is supportive with regard to their mental health. This should further improve as the school has recently invested in this area with the training of both an SMHL and MHFAiders. Staff volunteers are also available for drop ins if staff need support and it will be interesting to see what impact this has. Staff can also access counselling and other support via an EAP.
Comments on impact identified during validation
Following feedback, the school introduced instructional coaching. Staff also work in coaching pairs and have opportunities to shadow more senior or experienced colleagues in roles they aspire to. Staff wellbeing is also included in CPD. The coaching programmes in particular have been well received by staff with a many agreeing that it has helped to improve their practice.
Comments on impact identified during validation
A survey indicates that a significant number of staff are not happy with their involvement in whole school decisions. However, the evidence provided included feedback from staff suggestion boxes that has been acted upon and leaders now respond and keep staff informed via weekly bulletins even when they are not able to make the changes requested so I would anticipate that future surveys will show improvement.
Validator recommendation
I recommend that the school is accredited for this award
Validation confirm date
02/Nov/2023
Product attribute ref
Gold