It’s comprised of nearly 20 staff with members from nearly every department of the school. Our first meeting was held in the school café during which we got to know each other over a few games. We also agreed to work initially on a survey to drive our plan of action.
But why was it created?
Wellbeing is the current buzz word and I hope it stays that way for a while because health is the first wealth for all of us. Without good mental and physical health, we cannot really do our best for ourselves and others consistently every day. If we feel energised, strong and healthy we will be in the greatest position to proactively support our families, the students and our colleagues. Like a smile, good habits and great attitudes are contagious and will ripple throughout our school and community.
What have we achieved so far?
We decided to begin with a survey to determine how the whole school staff were feeling and what they would like to see happen this semester. Our survey consisted of only four key questions:
How would you rate your physical health at work?
How would you rate your mental health at work?
Are there any wellbeing issues at work that you feel need addressing this semester?
Regarding wellbeing and mental health, what would you like to see happen this year? (training, events, activities etc.)
From the results, we measured the overall mood of our whole staff and we’ll track this throughout the year. Additionally, we have already responded to some of the suggestions. As World Mental Health Day followed our survey, the Senior Leadership Team were able to immediately respond to the requests for more time and recognition.
They decided to serve everyone a deliciously cooked breakfast and provided time for colleagues to catch up with each other or their work that day, rather than holding a meeting or specific training. A giant board was set up for everyone to write their well wishes on it and one staff member led a stretching session after breakfast.
We also created a video in which staff shared their brilliant methods for keeping well.
Secondly, we responded to the plea for a central place where everyone can access information about wellbeing, clubs, social activities and events in Phnom Penh. Using Microsoft Sway, we were able to create a Wellbeing Electronic Board (WEB) that looked different to work sites, but is accessed using our Nord Anglia log in.
Everyone makes a difference
Finally, we organised a simple celebration for Water Festival by inviting a coconut stall holder on site to cut coconuts for everyone. This was very well received as can be seen from the photographs.
At NISC there are many everyday things that happen within departments such as food sharing, public praise in meetings, and birthday wishes to mention a few. With some simple routines added into your day, we can all keep well and support each other. Our next steps are to update our staffroom, introduce a wellness area, write a wellbeing policy and invite Santa to visit for Christmas.
Lastly, here are some everyday tips to help you maintain your wellbeing:
Send a kind note to someone eg. a relative, friend, guard, cleaner, driver etc.
Immerse yourself in a spa treatment.
Connect with someone you see every day but never chat with.
Take a walk surrounded by nature.
Take time to read something.
Switch on the music.
Create something.
Switch your phone, your laptop and your iPad off for a few hours or a day!
Do something kind for a stranger eg. pay for their taxi or meal.
Smile at or high five yourself in the mirror.
The other week I was in Bangkok at the ASAC Basketball Tournament that is open for Grade 6 – 8 students from 9 competing schools across South East Asia. It gave me some time to reflect on the benefits and opportunities that our Northbridge students can access that will develop them holistically and physically.
Academic excellence is at the forefront of education, and whilst our duty as teachers is to foster this, we also have the responsibility to open students’ eyes to the wider world and their social responsibility within it.
Service- learning, or service as action, combines in school learning with supporting local communities, encouraging students to independently research local issues and take action to support those in need.
World Mental Health Day raises awareness of mental health issues around the world. It is an international day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma. World Mental Health Day was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organization with members and contacts in more than 150 countries. This year, the World Health Organisation (WHO) is uniting with partners to highlight the vital connection between mental health and work.
Student leadership is a cornerstone of personal and community growth. By developing leadership skills early on, students gain confidence, responsibility, and the ability to inspire others—qualities that will serve them well throughout their lives.
