Staff Wellbeing Award

St Peter's RC High School-M12 4WA

Confirm the recommendation

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

SWA - Benchmark 2 - Create a supportive staff community

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

SWA - Benchmark 3 - Create a positive and healthy working environment

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

SWA - Benchmark 5 - Help staff achieve a healthy work–life balance

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

SWA - Benchmark 6 - Coordinate support for staff wellbeing

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

SWA - Benchmark 7 - Support staff personal and professional development

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

SWA - Benchmark 8 - Give teachers more professional control over decision-making

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

Validator report

26 February 2025

SWA-Archer Academy-N2 8GA-26/Feb/2025

Areas for further development

I appreciate that some of the evidence discussed at validation was not available at the time the school submitted its portfolio and, were it to attempt the Award again, it should be able to include feedback showing a positive impact of its recent work around supporting staff wellbeing. Up to three pieces of evidence can be submitted for each benchmark and these should focus on showing the difference that changes in provision have made. Comparing the feedback from surveys conducted in the previous school year with those undertaken more recently would enable the validator to see the impact of the school’s actions.

Award term ref

Confirm the recommendation

Overall comments

Theschool has made significant efforts to address staff wellbeing and the lead was able to quote several examples of feedback which reflect the positive impact of this but, unfortunately, these were not included in the evidence submitted for accreditation.

School ref

Archer Academy-N2 8GA

Validator benchmark comments

Benchmarks ref

Comments on impact identified during validation

The school have made a number of efforts to improve workload. Unfortunately, because there is only a single piece of evidence included it is not possible to see how this has impacted positively on staff. The initial responses to the question asked were not particularly positive so it would be helpful to see the follow up which, I understand, does show improvement.

Benchmarks ref

SWA - Benchmark 5 - Help staff achieve a healthy work–life balance

Comments on impact identified during validation

Again, while the school has introduced a number of additional approaches to showing appreciation, the impact of this is not reflected in the evidence provided. We need something more than comments from a single member of staff in an exit interview.

Benchmarks ref

Comments on impact identified during validation

The evidence does not show the impact of the school’s work to help staff improve their work life balance. I understand that there is survey evidence reflecting positively on the changes made to the school day, for example, and this could have been usefully included here.

Benchmarks ref

SWA - Benchmark 7 - Support staff personal and professional development

Comments on impact identified during validation

The evidence here relates to the range of CPD provided rather than its impact on staff confidence or career progression (for example).

Validator recommendation

I recommend that the school is not accredited for this award

Validation confirm date

26/Feb/2025

Product attribute ref

Silver

Validator report

26 February 2025

SWA-Brigantia Learning Trust-S5 6AG-26/Feb/2025

Areas for further development

The sixth form plans to enhance staff wellbeing by expanding mental health first aider training and strengthening communication. Efforts focus on actively listening to and acting on feedback, ensuring it is presented transparently and followed up consistently. A structured process is being developed to embed this practice, reinforcing a culture where staff voices are valued, and continuous improvements are made.

Award term ref

Brigantia Learning Trust-S358NN

Confirm the recommendation

Overall comments

The sixth form values reflection and the use of markers for improvement. The school has strong wellbeing initiatives in place and remains open to staff feedback, continually seeking ways to enhance support. Overall, staff feel supported, and existing provisions demonstrate a commitment to wellbeing. The school fosters a culture of reflection and responsiveness, ensuring staff needs are considered and improvements are made where possible.

School ref

Validator benchmark comments

Benchmarks ref

SWA - Benchmark 2 - Create a supportive staff community

Comments on impact identified during validation

The school has streamlined workload by implementing designated marking days and giving staff time for marking. They have also reviewed data use to simplify processes, making workload more manageable. Staff feel happier and welcome these changes, with teachers empowered to use their autonomy in shaping learning outcomes.

Benchmarks ref

Comments on impact identified during validation

The school fosters a supportive staff ethos, offering wellbeing spaces, a buddy scheme, and mental health first aiders. A wellbeing day promotes social connection, and flexible leave supports work-life balance. Managers provide strong feedback and recognition, with 90% of staff feeling respected. Training and counselling are available, and most staff feel comfortable seeking help, enhancing a culture of openness and care.

Benchmarks ref

SWA - Benchmark 3 - Create a positive and healthy working environment

Comments on impact identified during validation

The school fosters a positive atmosphere by providing welcoming spaces for staff to work, meet, and relax. A wellbeing day encourages social activities, and staff-run clubs promote connections. Staff appreciate reduced data collection, easing workload. A massage chair and shared spaces enhance wellbeing. Junior management roles are well received, supporting professional growth. Staff voice is valued, with actions taken to improve their experience.

Benchmarks ref

SWA - Benchmark 5 - Help staff achieve a healthy work–life balance

Comments on impact identified during validation

The school promotes staff recognition through a ‘shout out’ board, where colleagues can nominate each other for outstanding contributions. A staff spotlight award and termly student appreciation further enhance morale. Recognition events celebrate achievements, and staff benefits, including discounts, wellbeing programmes, and free refreshments, are valued. These initiatives boost staff engagement, with strong uptake in nominations and appreciation for being acknowledged.

Benchmarks ref

Comments on impact identified during validation

The school supports a healthy work-life balance by offering flexible leave for personal events and professional development. A two-way approach ensures staff needs are considered, with efforts to accommodate requests. Training days are structured to allow staff to catch up on tasks without disrupting learning. A weekly bulletin reduces email overload, and alternative solutions are explored to make work arrangements more manageable.

Benchmarks ref

SWA - Benchmark 6 - Coordinate support for staff wellbeing

Comments on impact identified during validation

The school provides strong staff wellbeing support through counselling services, an open-door culture, and signposted mental health resources. A wellbeing governor and senior mental health lead enhance provision. A dedicated wellbeing space offers guidance, while a Wellbeing Day includes on-site activities and off-site opportunities for staff. Staff feel supported, with 75% confident in discussing mental health. Future plans include appointing a wellbeing governor to strengthen initiatives further.

Benchmarks ref

SWA - Benchmark 7 - Support staff personal and professional development

Comments on impact identified during validation

The school supports staff CPD through dedicated training on mental health and wellbeing, coaching for professional development, and clear career progression pathways. Training requests are approved, allowing staff autonomy in shaping their development. The appraisal process includes discussions on staff wellbeing and growth. Opportunities for leadership roles enhance skills, benefiting both individuals and the school. Coaching has been well received, positively impacting staff confidence and career progression.

Benchmarks ref

SWA - Benchmark 8 - Give teachers more professional control over decision-making

Comments on impact identified during validation

The school empowers staff by providing autonomy in decision-making, consulting them on major changes, and offering regular feedback opportunities. A peer observation scheme replaces formal lesson observations, and staff have dedicated time to share best practices. The appraisal process encourages reflection and discussion of aspirations. Staff input is valued through an extended leadership team and a teaching and learning working party, ensuring ongoing collaboration and professional ownership.

Validator recommendation

I recommend that the school is accredited for this award

Validation confirm date

26/Feb/2025

Product attribute ref

Gold

Validator report

18 February 2025

SWA-Choppington Primary School-NE62 5RR-18/Feb/2025

Areas for further development

The school is still on a journey with regard to staff wellbeing so continue to analyse the regular wellbeing surveys to ensure that improvements in responses are maintained. If necessary, meet with groups of staff to discuss particular issues as they arise. You have outlined some excellent 'next steps' and these should help to develop provision further. Also consider asking specifically about how useful recent changes and developments have been and if there are others that staff would welcome - this could be done very simply by asking everyone to rate them, summarising the results and feeding back outcomes to staff so that they can see how their feedback has impacted on provision.

Award term ref

Choppington Primary School-NE62 5RR

Confirm the recommendation

Overall comments

The school's new HT is working hard to improve staff wellbeing, increase communication between SLT and staff, reduce workload and ensure staff involvement in decsion making. This has resulted in significant improvements in staff feedback with regard tio their own wellbeing.

School ref

Validator benchmark comments

Benchmarks ref

SWA - Benchmark 2 - Create a supportive staff community

Comments on impact identified during validation

Leaders have a good understanding of workload pressures and have ensured that any changes to provision are assessed for their impact on staff wellbeing. Detailed wellbeing surveys are conducted biannually and staff report that work impacts positively on their wellbeing and that managers are supportive.

Benchmarks ref

Comments on impact identified during validation

Survey feedback demonstrates that staff feel supported by leaders and are regularly encouraged to share wellbeing and mental health concerns.

Benchmarks ref

SWA - Benchmark 3 - Create a positive and healthy working environment

Comments on impact identified during validation

As well as conducting formal surveys, leaders regularly check in with staff. In addition to the feedback already noted, the school’s recent Ofsted report also states that staff morale is high. Staff say that the carefully designed CPD they receive effectively supports their workload.

Benchmarks ref