Information and support for staff working in educational settings
Over a decade of experience working and managing counselling services within independent and state sector primary/secondary schools has been key to the development of my underlying philosophy when working within educational settings. I am of the belief that every school has its own unique requirements which are in part determined by the student/staff population, impact of life events and underlying ethos of the school. With this in mind, I aim to provide a flexible range of services which can be integrated into educational settings or called upon when the need arises.There is increasing interest in the ‘use of supervision in education and schools are increasingly looking to access this support, particularly for school leaders and those involved in safeguarding’.
(Dr Rachel Briggs https://mentallywellschools.co.uk/reflective-supervision-in-education-what-it-is-and-why-its-needed/amp/)
How can supervision be useful in schools and colleges?
The educational landscape is increasingly recognising the profound impact of social and emotional well-being upon learning and development. A wide range of education staff from teachers, teaching assistants, pastoral leads and SENDCo’s are often at the forefront of supporting students facing diverse challenges. The pandemic has led to a three hundred percent increase in referrals to CAMHS. Additionally, statistics published by the National Education Union (2022:1) highlight increasing numbers of teachers intending to leave the profession with 52% of teachers describing their workload as either ‘unmanageable’ or ‘unmanageable most of the time’. Supervision in school provides a dedicated space space for professionals to navigate the complexities of their roles, enhance skills and safeguard staff well-being.
What is supervision? Supervision in school provides a vital and dedicated space for professionals to navigate the complexities of their roles, enhance skills and safeguard staff well-being.
Supervision is a strategic investment in the well-being of both staff and students. It is important to note that supervision is not therapy but more akin to supervision which has been embedded in other helping professions for many years.
Why is supervision so crucial for education staff?
Supporting Well-being and Preventing Burnout: Education staff frequently encounter students experiencing emotional distress, behavioural difficulties and challenging issues outside of school. Supervision offers a confidential space to manage the emotional demands of the role and protect against burnout.
Enhancing Skills and Confidence in Supporting Students: Supervision provides a platform for staff to reflect upon their interactions with students, explore support strategies and develop greater understanding of the underlying needs of young people. This enhances confidence and effectiveness in addressing students' diverse needs.
Navigating Complex Student Needs and Behaviours: Dealing with complex behavioural issues, mental health concerns and safeguarding responsibilities can be challenging. Supervision offers a space to reflect upon and develop appropriate and ethical responses promoting the safety and well-being of students and staff.
Promoting a Whole-School Approach to Well-being: Supervision can facilitate discussions around school-wide well-being initiatives.
Facilitating Reflective Practice: Supervision can support staff to reflect upon their practice in a confidential setting.
Providing Ethical Guidance and Support:Supervision offers a place to reflect upon challenges and differing perspectives to assist in decision making.
Critical incident support
Will you offer supervision on site?
I am able to visit local schools to offer this on site. I also work with staff online or in person in my private practice.
What does this look like in action?
One off or regular confidential meetings geared around the needs of the school staff. I am able to meet with the same staff each visit or rotate to meet the needs of school.
As a specialist in working with trauma, I am also able to advise around times of critical incidents or events impacting the school system.
National Education Union. (2022). State of Education: The Profession.https://neu.org.uk/press-releases/state-education-profession
