Thank you to everyone that was able to find time in your incredibly busy days to share your thoughts around wellbeing with us. We have analysed the responses and work has already begun to resolve/work on many of the issues highlighted. I will report back on this more after half term, for now I want to focus on what you can do during half term to improve your wellbeing.

Whilst you may feel you can't take time for yourself this half term it is vital that you do. You are important too, put yourself on your to do list as a priority.

Practical: 

Nuffield Health - Barack Street Norwich - 7 day free pass over half term. Ring direct to organise and have school ID to hand. 01603 760600

Headspace app - free to all school staff with a school email address. 

Provides guided meditations, support with sleep, exercise and more. Proven to help reduce burn out and stress levels. Find out more and sign up to the educators package either in your app store or via www.headspace.com/educators

YouTube - 1000's of videos of guided meditation, yoga, pilates and fitness for all levels and a variety of times from 10 mins to an hour

Libraries - Reading is a popular way to reduce stress levels and boost wellbeing, most Norfolk libraries have now reopened, albeit on reduced hours. Spending 10 minutes in the quiet of the library thinking of little but the titles and blurbs of the books can be very helpful in quietening the constant to do list running round your head. 

Art - Painting, colouring, drawing, doodling are all proven ways of helping to reduce stress. Adult activities are readily available in supermarkets and online, similar to reading, the focus required to complete these activities quietens the mind, helping you to relax.

Walking/nature - We live in a beautiful county with lots of places you have yet to explore, grab your wellies, a coat and a flask and head off to a new spot. Our National Trust properties have reopened their gardens and wider outdoor spaces, you need to book a carpark slot. All the beach car parks seem to be open and of course we have lots of walks and trails across the county. Check out Norfolk trails on social media or here: https://www.norfolk.gov.uk/out-and-about-in-norfolk/norfolk-trails for some ideas. 

Things to look at/listen to:

Headteacher chat - A list of resources they have pulled together regarding wellbeing of leaders. https://www.headteacherchat.com/post/must-read-websites-to-support-well-being-of-staff

Viv Grant - Integrity coaching have put together this podcast  https://www.integritycoaching.co.uk/podcasts/well-being-school-leaders

The podcast covers: Strategies in achieving a work-life balance, How to recognise the importance of looking after your own wellbeing, as well as your team, Leading without sacrificing yourself, The importance of the relationship with the governing body in offering support, Reducing stress.