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Staff Wellbeing
We recognise the profound impact that wellbeing has on individual fulfilment, professional performance, and the strength of our school community. That’s why wellbeing is a cornerstone of our professional culture.
We want every member of staff to feel supported, valued, and able to flourish both personally and professionally.
Staff Wellbeing Committee
Staff wellbeing at Hammersmith Academy is championed at the highest level through our Staff Wellbeing Committee, led by a member of our Governing Body and our staff wellbeing coordinator. This ensures that wellbeing is not an add-on, but a strategic priority woven through every aspect of Academy life.
Our committee is guided by a clear vision:
““To create a caring school community promoting staff wellbeing through a whole-school approach, characterised by supportive relationships, meaningful involvement in the community, and a safe environment that values and celebrates achievement.”
Recognising that wellbeing is multi-layered, the committee uses the evidence-based What Works Wellbeing framework to shape a purposeful and responsive wellbeing programme. Our approach focuses on five key factors known to influence staff wellbeing:
- Security – A safe, stable and supportive working environment
- Health & Wellbeing – Access to mental and physical health support, including Medigold Health Protect
- Relationships – A collegial culture grounded in kindness, collaboration and mutual respect
- Purpose & Belonging – Opportunities for staff to contribute to school life and feel part of a shared mission
- Praise & Recognition – Systems that acknowledge and celebrate the commitment and achievements of colleagues
Wellbeing Opportunities, Activities & Events
Each term, we timetable dedicated Staff Wellbeing Events: protected moments in the school calendar that allow colleagues to step away from classrooms and offices, re-energise, and reconnect with one another.
These events are carefully scheduled at key points in the academic cycle, recognising when staff may most benefit from a pause. They offer the space to relax, bond with colleagues, and enjoy creative, active, or calming activities that nurture both mental and physical wellbeing. We firmly believe that by prioritising your wellbeing, we are supporting our greatest asset – you.
Examples of recent Wellbeing Events include:
Winter Term
Christmas wreath-making
Scented candle making
Terrarium workshop
Craft and card-making
Seasonal decorations crafting
Multi-sport activities
Staff Social Event
Governors’ afternoon tea celebration
Spring Term
Yoga sessions
Staff social event
Multi-sport activities
Staff wellbeing afternoon (including sports, crafting, games, dance)
Governors’ afternoon tea celebration
Summer Term
Yoga
Gardening
Multi-sport activities
Staff wellbeing afternoon (including sports, crafting, games, dance)
Governors’ afternoon tea celebration
Staff summer celebration
These events form an important part of our wider wellbeing programme, helping to cultivate a positive staff culture where everyone feels valued, supported and part of a strong, connected community.
Our staff also organise informal staff events throughout the year. From staff football and netball to yoga sessions and a running club, these relaxed, social events help colleagues unwind, stay active, and build positive relationships across the Academy. They are a valued part of our culture.
A Healthier, Happier You – Every Day
We offer a range of wellbeing support designed for real life:
Medigold Health Protect Membership
All staff receive access to comprehensive wellbeing support through Medigold, including:
Guidance services for a holistic approach to personal health
Thrive App – confidential mental wellbeing support, mindfulness tools, and resilience resources available 24/7
Access to professional advice around mental health, stress management, and emotional wellbeing
A Balanced Academic Year
Recognising the intensity of the longest academic term, Hammersmith Academy offers a two-week October half-term – giving colleagues a meaningful reset period to foster wellbeing.
You’ll Never Feel Alone — The HA Buddy System
Starting at a new school can feel daunting, no matter your experience.
That’s why every new member of staff is paired with a buddy from day one.
Your buddy is there to help you settle in smoothly, offering:
- A supportive colleague who genuinely cares about your success
- Someone who knows the school inside-out
- A friendly, judgement-free sounding board
- Answers to all the questions you might hesitate to ask
- Regular check-ins during your first term (and beyond)
Your buddy is not a line manager or mentor – they are your informal, friendly anchor, helping you navigate daily life at HA, understand our culture, and feel part of the team from the moment you arrive.
The buddy system transforms the early weeks from overwhelming to exciting, helping new staff build confidence and connection quickly.
For many colleagues, their buddy becomes a long-term friend.
Part of Our Culture
This system reflects something bigger: a workplace where people look out for one another, celebrate each other’s strengths, and create an environment where staff feel they belong. We don’t just want you to succeed at Hammersmith Academy – we want you to thrive.
Creating a Supportive, Sustainable Staff Culture
Our wellbeing ethos is woven through daily life at HA:
- A genuinely open-door Senior Leadership Team
- Transparent communication and staff voice
- Collaborative planning and cross-department support
- A strong social culture that brings colleagues together
- Practical health and wellbeing initiatives throughout the year
Every member of staff contributes to a culture where mutual respect, empathy and positivity shape the way we work and support one another.
