Cramlington headteacher gains recognition for good working practice

A Cramlington headteacher is one of three from Northumberland to have been awarded the ‘Valued Workers Scheme’ accreditation for good working practice.

Jacqui Mowat, headteacher of Hareside Primary School in Cramlington, Ben Ryder of Berwick Middle School and Cramlington, and Donna Park of Blyth Academy have all been recognised for the Valued Workers Scheme thanks to their communication and input and the inclusion of wellbeing coaching sessions to enhance the professional development already being offered to staff.

Headteacher, Jacqueline Mowat of Hareside Primary school said: “We are delighted to be recognised within the Valued Workers scheme. We truly appreciate that our staff are our greatest resource and by valuing, supporting and challenging them appropriately we really can make a huge difference, not only for our children but also for our whole team.”

Ben Ryder, headteacher of Berwick Middle School said: “We are delighted to be part of the Valued Worker Scheme.  Berwick Middle School is lucky to have a fantastic team of staff who now more than ever are working under huge pressure to ensure high quality education and wellbeing for our pupils as well as support for our families and community.

“It is vitally important that we do all that we can to support staff in this and I look forward to continuing work with trade unions to strengthen this position.  I would like to thank trade union colleagues for their support, challenge and advice and would encourage other schools to consider the scheme.”

The valued workers scheme is a joint trade union initiative supported by the NASUWT, Unison, Unite and GMB to recognise and support good employment relations in schools. Accreditation is awarded to Headteachers or Chair of Governor’s who have demonstrated a history of good employment practice and are working towards objectives to further the wellbeing of all school staff.

Headteacher, Donna Park of Blyth Academy said: “At Northern Education Trust The Blyth Academy we have worked in partnership with our trade unions to create a culture of safety and attention to detail; to ensure our staff feel valued, safe and supported.  Our teachers’ and support staff have shown great resilience and commitment during these challenging times and we have been humbled by their continued professionalism and commitment to our students.  Being part of the valued workers scheme is a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to supporting their wellbeing.”

This initiative allows Northumberland schools to further challenge themselves for the benefit of their entire workforce.

Councillor Guy Renner-Thompson, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Children’s Services said: “This is a great achievement for all of these schools. It shows they are committed to the wellbeing of their staff, but also to the culture of their school environment. By investing in staff support they are continuing to invest in their whole school.”

Pictured: Jacqui Mowat and colleagues at Hareside Primary School.