Cheviot Learning Trust and Still Human: A Shared Vision for Staff Wellbeing

After the creation of Cheviot Learning Trust in 2023, we prioritised the sentiment that a thriving workforce is essential to delivering high-quality education. As a Trust, we took proactive steps to ensure our employees feel valued, supported, and empowered. 

One of the main steps we took was strengthening our partnership with Still Human, an organisation specialising in workplace wellbeing. 

Alice Witherow, Chief Executive Officer at Cheviot Learning Trust, explains the motivation behind this initiative:

“Driven by our vision to deliver excellent education for all, we recognised the need to invest in our staff’s wellbeing. Partnering with Still Human, we’ve provided high-quality training, developed a policy approach, and enhanced wellbeing systems. Every school now has a Wellbeing Lead, supported by a Wellbeing Charter, Code of Conduct, Staff Development Policy, and extensive resources to help staff feel well, connected, and supported. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive – many said it was the best training they’ve had, with one Headteacher even practising stress management techniques on their commute!”

A Holistic Approach to Staff Wellbeing

The collaboration between Cheviot Learning Trust and Still Human has resulted in an in-depth programme designed to foster a resilient and supportive workplace culture. Key initiatives include:

1. Wellbeing Champion Training

Leaders and managers from all schools – including our CEO, COO, and HR Director – participated in two days of Wellbeing Champion training. This training focused on embedding staff wellbeing into the culture of the Trust and equipping leaders with the tools needed to build resilience and support at every level.

2. Creation of a Staff Wellbeing Charter

We developed a Trust-wide charter to unify our commitment to employee wellbeing, ensuring consistency across all schools.

3. Staff Development Workshops

During Trust-wide CPD days, Still Human delivers interactive sessions to all staff. These workshops provide practical tools for managing personal well-being and emphasise the collective responsibility of supporting colleagues.

4. Ongoing Support for Wellbeing Champions

To ensure lasting impact, Still Human facilitated online support sessions for our Wellbeing Champions. These sessions helped leaders plan and review their initiatives, maintaining a positive influence across the Trust.

5. Targeted Support for School Leaders

Understanding the unique challenges faced by school leaders, Still Human offers tailored sessions to address their specific needs, reinforcing a culture of well-being from the top down.

Mark Tait, Chief Operating Officer at Cheviot Learning Trust, highlights the impact of these efforts:

“The Still Human team has worked with Trust leaders to create a strategy that prioritises staff wellbeing through practical and operational changes. This approach fosters deep, meaningful changes, embedding well-being into planning, working, and communication. Compassion, care for others, and self-care are now central to the Trust’s culture. Leaders actively support wellbeing, while staff embrace their role in maintaining it. With Still Human’s guidance, we are building a stronger Trust.”

A Commitment to Excellence Through Wellbeing

By partnering with Still Human, Cheviot Learning Trust continues to demonstrate our dedication to creating a supportive and thriving environment for our staff. This investment in employee wellbeing is an investment in our future, ensuring that our schools remain places where both staff and students can excel.

As Cheviot Learning Trust continues to grow and evolve, the focus on wellbeing will remain central to our mission, proving that happy and healthy staff are essential to achieving educational excellence.