We were delighted to welcome back Schoolgenie Community Interest Company, to run a headteachers/leaders cohort. The day focussed on developing self-compassion, with the goal of helping to build trust and improve the overall mindset of the school they lead.

This is Schoolgenie’s second visit to us. The first was a few months earlier, which was the last day of their first year of running this special cohort. This time round, it  was Day 1 of their second year.

The group spent the majority of the day in our heated Wellness Yurt. As requested, a healthy, homemade brunch of smoked salmon, eggs, avocados along with granolas, bio yoghurts and fruit salad was served. This was to allow sufficient time for food to digest, before they all partook in some wellbeing activities, including Yoga.

All the attendees are referred to as ‘genies’ or genies in the making. A Genie is an existing member of staff who performs a similar role to an external coach but inside the school. They are people who are innately curious about those around them and are able to see the organisational system the school has created. Having a trained genie in a school is about empowering staff; they are expert in people and how they behave. Genies are trust builders, enabling school staff cultures where people want to stay.

A genie will bring enhanced staff wellbeing due to encouraging a more collaborative and reciprocal culture. This will impact positively on staff retention. The teachers who are happiest in their work feel that they are appreciated and that they have a voice in the workplace. Research shows that when teachers are happy they remain in post. When there is no interruption in teaching provision, students’ performance, security and attainment are enhanced.

Schoolgenie really does undertake some amazing work to improve the culture in our schools, which can become extremely toxic. We are so grateful they have chosen the Wellness Yurt as one of their preferred venues and look forward to welcoming them back again in the near future.