Work with us

Wells Park School is committed to fostering an environment that promotes the wellbeing of all staff and ensures a balanced workload that supports both professional satisfaction and the delivery of high-quality care and education for our children. We recognise that supporting the wellbeing of staff is vital for creating a positive and effective school culture. For more information, view our Wellbeing and Workload Statement below.

Wellbeing and Workload Statement September 2024

Our Commitment

We are dedicated to the following principles to support staff wellbeing and manage workload effectively:

Staff Wellbeing: We prioritise mental and physical health by providing access to wellbeing resources and creating a supportive work culture.

Workload Management: We strive to maintain a manageable workload that enables staff to deliver effective teaching and support without compromising their personal lives.

Collaboration and Support: We encourage a collaborative culture where staff have opportunities to share ideas, gain peer support, and participate in professional development.

Existing Strategies to Promote Wellbeing and Manage Workload

Clear Meeting Structure: Meetings are carefully scheduled to focus on key areas, including staff and pupil welfare, while limiting unnecessary administrative burden. Focus areas are planned to ensure efficiency of time with A.O.B. scheduled at the end of each half-term.

Staff Wellbeing Support Services: We provide access to counselling and mental health support services, and maintain a positive focus on mental health within the school, including initiatives for positive mental health.

Free Meals and Refreshments: All staff receive free meals, as well as access to free tea and coffee throughout the day.

PPA Sessions: We ensure dedicated time for planning, preparation, and assessment (PPA) is protected to allow teachers to prepare effectively without excessive additional hours.

Subject leadership release time: Subject leaders are given dedicated time within the week to coordinate their subject.

Career Progression: Progression opportunities are provided across The Beckmead Trust.

Free parking: All staff have access to free parking on site.

Pension contributions: Pensions are important and The Beckmead Trust contributes towards this.

Effective Use of Fridays: With a shortened instructional day on Fridays, more time is afforded to individual and group reflection.

Collaboration Opportunities: Staff have opportunities to collaborate across our hub model with partner schools, sharing best practices, and benefiting from training offered through Wells Park School.

Recognition and Celebration: Regular recognition and celebration of staff achievements are embedded into the school culture. Our badge system encourages not only pupils but also staff to engage in positive practices that align with wellbeing and development. Staff are also nominated for special recognition through our Governor newsletter.

Reduced Administrative Tasks: We continually evaluate administrative requirements, ensuring they are essential, and aim to reduce unnecessary paperwork, making time for core tasks related to the care of the children and families we serve.

Clear Role Definition: Staff roles and responsibilities are clearly defined to prevent overlap and ensure a shared understanding of expectations. Regular discussions help refine roles where flexibility is needed.

Access to Resources: Staff are provided with the necessary resources, both physical and digital, to complete their work efficiently.

Extensive CPD Unique to Our Setting: We offer extensive Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities that are tailored to the unique needs of our setting, ensuring staff can grow and develop their skills effectively.

Trust-Wide Benefits Package: Staff benefit from a Trust-wide package that includes additional perks and support to promote overall wellbeing and work satisfaction.

Uniform Provided and Free Parking: We provide uniforms to staff, along with free parking, making daily logistics easier and more convenient.

Dedicated Annual Welfare Day: Each staff member is given a dedicated annual welfare day to support personal wellbeing, providing time away from work to recharge.

Accessible Leadership Team: Our leadership team maintains an open-door policy, ensuring that staff feel heard, supported, and have easy access to guidance and decision-making.

Staff Voice and Feedback: Formal opportunities for staff feedback are provided on a Wednesday and Friday to understand workload pressures and implement practical solutions. Staff wellbeing surveys and open forums help identify areas of improvement.

Commitment to Continuous Improvement

We are committed to regularly reviewing our wellbeing and workload practices in consultation with staff to ensure they remain relevant, effective, and responsive to the needs of the whole school community. By maintaining open communication and providing practical support, we aim to create a positive and sustainable working environment for all.