Leaders: Modelling Positive Wellbeing Practice

A tray of bacon sandwiches in the staff room is lovely, but it won't keep people in post. What staff notice is whether their leaders go home at a reasonable hour, send emails at midnight, and take their own advice.

Culture is set by example. A serving primary headteacher shares what works in a small school where everything has to be simple and cost little. That means a shared language for wellbeing (health, finances, work and friendships) and short, regular check-ins built around "what can I do for you?". It also means delayed-send emails, and a wellbeing day each member of staff can cash in during the year. You'll also think about when well-meant socials turn into "enforced jolliness".

Most of all, it's a reminder to put your own oxygen mask on first, because your staff take their lead from you.