Investors in People: We invest in well-being Gold

We are thrilled to have recently been recognised for our commitment to the well-being of our colleagues, staff, Associates and educational leaders across Wales, by being awarded Gold accreditation from Investors in People – We invest in well-being.

The well-being work undertaken by the National Academy for Educational Leadership is integral to our vision. As stated in our corporate plan we are serious about the well-being of leaders, and we will prioritise and support the well-being of all professionals. Therefore, being recognised for this award, during such difficult times, is a true accolade for us.

Our well-being policy is centred around the five ways of well-being: Connection, Learning, Giving, Being Active and Taking Notice, which has given us direction on many of our workstreams and activities. Building empathetic and professional relationships with those we work with has been fundamental to the success of this award and further cements the importance of the National Academy for Educational Leadership’s All Wales Well-being Strategy for Educational Leadership. Furthermore, being serious about well-being has cultivated a healthy approach within the National Academy for Educational Leadership towards self-care and ensuring time and space is set aside to nurture good habits. We place great importance on supporting charities, ensuring reasonable online working, promoting a healthy work/life balance, and taking part in mindfulness and team activities including – yoga, meeting the donkeys and bingo. In addition to this, the team have recently undertaken mental health first aid training through MHFA Wales.

Working alongside Investors in People as part of the assessment was a great experience. The process was clear, thorough and we were supported seamlessly throughout by our facilitator Bethan. All core staff and a handful of Associates had the opportunity to share their thoughts and experiences through interviews and surveys and this feedback informed the final report. We look forward to our continued work with Investors in People, implementing the recommendations that are right for us and maintaining the high standard achieved.

Nia Miles, Innovation and Well-being Advisor
National Academy for Educational Leadership Wales