A recent study from The University of Manchester reveals a significant connection between teacher wellbeing and student achievement. Conducted by Dr. Alexandra Hennessey and Dr. Sarah MacQuarrie from the Manchester Institute of Education, the research examined ten schools across the UK that adopted the Well Schools framework. This national initiative, developed by the Youth Sport Trust, emphasizes the importance of wellbeing in education.
The Well Schools project, launched in 2020, has expanded to include a community of over 2,000 schools throughout the UK. The focus of this study was on how these ten schools implemented the framework to enhance wellbeing for both staff and students. Findings, published in the journal Frontiers in Education, indicate that a focus on health, happiness, and connectedness fosters a more positive and productive learning environment.
Positive Learning Environments Through Wellbeing Initiatives
The report details inspiring practices from the participating schools, which have introduced a variety of initiatives such as daily “active learning” sessions, outdoor lessons, staff recognition schemes, mental health first aid training, and after-school wellbeing clubs. These tailored programs are designed to meet the specific needs of each school, contributing to a sense of value among teachers and increased engagement among students.
A headteacher involved in the study remarked, “If staff are happy and relaxed, the lessons they teach are better. You can feel the buzz in the building – it just feels different.” The research included schools of varying sizes, from small primary institutions to large secondary and special schools, located across England, Scotland, and Wales. Despite their differences, all shared a commitment to embedding wellbeing into their school culture, resulting in noticeable improvements in attendance, focus, and morale.
The study found that wellbeing programs were most effective when led by senior school leaders but collaboratively shaped by both staff and students. Initiatives like ‘keep, tweak or ditch’ reviews allowed teachers to reduce unnecessary workloads, while student wellbeing ambassadors and parent workshops helped extend the positive impact beyond the classroom.
The Community Impact of Wellbeing in Schools
“This research highlights the power of schools working as communities – not just institutions that deliver lessons, but places that nurture people,” said Dr. MacQuarrie. The schools involved fostered a sense of belonging, where both staff and students felt acknowledged and supported.
According to Dr. Hennessey, “Wellbeing and learning go hand in hand. Schools that invest in the health and happiness of their staff and students aren’t just improving education – they’re shaping stronger, kinder communities.” This study provides strong evidence that prioritizing wellbeing can lead to enhanced educational outcomes, reinforcing the critical connection between teacher satisfaction and student success.
