Positive feedback from the annual trust survey, alongside evidence from classroom staff meetings, professional learning days, staff appraisals etc have demonstrated the benefits of new marking and reporting systems, the schools flexible working policy etc on staff wellbeing. A flexible approach to the timings of parents evenings and other events has minimised their impact on staff's commitments outside of work (see below).

The school has trained 8 MH First Aiders and the wellbeing lead is currently undertaking SMHL training. It has also created a wellbeing policy. Staff feedback demonstrates the effectiveness of the leader's open and positive approach to supporting the emotional and mental health of its staff.

Staff enjoy ‘nurture days’ when they undertake acts of kindness for individual colleagues. Evidence included positive feedback about a number of staff clubs (running, a book club etc), discounted yoga sessions and other provision. Leaders are mindful of caring and other responsibilities and model a positive approach to flexible working to accommodate these.

Leaders take care to formally acknowledge individual members of staff in weekly messages and through other routes. Evidence included positive feedback about this form non-teaching colleagues

This area emerged as a particular strength with high numbers of staff on P/T contracts and specific actions such as allowing staff to indicate their availability for parents’ evenings rather than this being dictated by the school – thereby ensuring that out of hours activities impact as little as possible on personal lives.

The wellbeing lead is undertaking SMHL training and is clearly well supported in her responsibilities by school leaders. Several staff are qualified MH First Aiders and a lead governor for wellbeing has been appointed. Evidence included positive feedback about the support provided to staff by the wellbeing lead.

Staff at all levels have access to coaching to support their professional development. Others have gained qualifications through the NPQ providers linked to the MAT’s training school. Evidence includes positive feedback from staff who have accessed training.

Staff described the various ways that they seek feedback from colleagues and how this has impacted on a number of areas including marking, PPA provision etc.

Hill Top School has prioritised staff wellbeing, engaging senior leaders in this initiative. The school offers wellbeing packages, including counselling and physiotherapy. Weekly meetings are held to check in on staff wellbeing, supported by occupational health services. Additionally, the senior leaders issue a weekly bulletin featuring a dedicated well-being section. This comprehensive approach ensures staff feel supported and valued, fostering a positive work environment at Hill Top School.

Hill Top School focuses on creating a positive and healthy working environment. They organise mindful activities and staff sports events. The staffroom has been rearranged to ensure it provides a relaxing and social space. A staff suggestion box allows for anonymous tips, and a recent staff survey was completed and analysed by senior leaders. These efforts aim to promote staff wellbeing and foster a supportive, engaging workplace.

Hill Top School actively shows staff appreciation. They have a staff shout-out board for recognising good practice and wellbeing efforts. Policies and wellbeing packages are included, and staff receive certificates in assemblies based on nominations. At the end of each half-term, a gesture of appreciation is shared with staff. Personalised wellbeing postcards are also given to staff. These initiatives demonstrate the school's commitment to recognising and valuing the hard work and contributions of the staff body.

Hill Top School supports staff in achieving a healthy work-life balance. Allocating time in the school calendar has been successful, with staff having autonomy over their CPD targets. The staffroom is now a protected space for downtime. Flexible opportunities include amending staff contracts to provide flexible working arrangements. These initiatives reflect the school's commitment to fostering a supportive environment where staff can balance professional responsibilities with personal well-being.