Staff Wellbeing and School Community
Support school communities and reduce workload pressures with practical classroom resources. Align effective storage, standardized resources, and simple reading records with guidance from the DfE Staff Wellbeing Charter to decrease administrative time, improve daily organization, and foster positive, sustainable environments for teachers and support staff.
The people who make education happen are a school's most important resource. GLS supports teachers, school leaders and support staff by helping schools reduce workload pressures, improve organisation and create positive working environments. From practical classroom resources and reading records to staff recognition initiatives and wellbeing-focused support, this hub brings together guidance and ideas that help schools support the people behind pupil success.
Staff Wellbeing
Why is staff wellbeing becoming a greater priority for schools?
Staff wellbeing has become one of the most important challenges facing schools. The Teacher Wellbeing Index 2025 reported that 76% of education staff experienced stress and 71% reported unmanageable workloads. These pressures affect retention, morale and the overall effectiveness of school communities.
The DfE Education Staff Wellbeing Charter recognises the importance of creating supportive workplace cultures, while the DfE Workload Reduction Toolkit provides practical strategies to help schools reduce unnecessary workload.
How can schools reduce workload pressures for staff?
Reducing workload is not always about major structural change. Often, small operational improvements, better organisation and efficient resource management can help reduce unnecessary pressures on teachers and support staff.
Practical Workload Reduction Strategies
| Strategy | Potential Benefit |
|---|---|
| Standardised resources | Reduced preparation time |
| Organised storage systems | Faster resource access |
| Repeat ordering systems | Reduced administration |
| Centralised planning tools | Improved consistency |
| Simplified tracking systems | Reduced paperwork |
Resource-Based Workload Support
| Resource Type | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Reading Records | Simplified communication |
| Classroom Organisation Tools | Reduced daily admin |
| Assessment Resources | Faster feedback processes |
| Planning Resources | Improved efficiency |
Source: DfE Workload Reduction Toolkit.
What are reading records and why do schools still use them?
Reading records remain one of the most widely used tools for supporting communication between school and home. They help teachers, parents and carers track reading progress while encouraging regular reading habits.
Despite the growth of digital tools, many schools continue to use physical reading records because they are simple, accessible and effective.
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