In the dynamic world of education, the well-being of professionals is not only fundamental to their personal fulfilment but also pivotal to the success of students and institutions alike.
Based on our recent Randstad mental health and well-being survey, the figures speak to a situation which is only worsening. When asked about the support they desire, respondents from the education sector expressed their preferences. The findings revealed that 79% are in favour of accessible and cost-free counselling, while 77% prioritise mental health, resilience, and stress management training. Additionally, 69% highly value mindfulness support, recognising it as an essential tool for sustaining their well-being.
Additionally, overlooking mental health can have significant consequences and may potentially escalate into a more serious issue if not addressed promptly.Alarming data shows 35% of under-35s in education consider leaving the industry entirely. This is split into those wanting to depart immediately (17%) and those awaiting more favourable circumstances (18%) in order to do so. This is in stark contrast to social care (29%) and further education (27%) where the desire to change profession is much lower presently than within education.
Despite this, 69% of educators rated their fulfilment levels through their work at a 6 or higher, out of 10, which is more than any other industry barring those working in social care and technology which scored slightly more. This could infer that those working in education find great satisfaction from their work in building young minds, but that they are be struggling with aspects related to it, whether pay or conditions.
While progress is being made in reducing mental health stigma, there is still work to be done. Over half (50.4%) of individuals surveyed within education believe mental health is still stigmatised. 58% say that there aren’t enough outlets for open dialogue over their mental well-being. Also, 1 in 2 believe their employers fall short in providing adequate support structures in relation to mental health and overall well-being.
So what can be done to address this? After all, these statistics unequivocally demonstrate the urgency of addressing mental health in the education industry. Prioritising well-being not only safeguards the mental health of educators but also plays a pivotal role in staff retention within the education sector. Retaining experienced and dedicated staff is crucial in ensuring the continuity and quality of education for students. Introducing comprehensive well-being programmes and providing accessible support can significantly contribute to achieving this crucial objective.
In order to explore solutions to the well-being in education problem, Randstad hosted an event for clients aboard its Clipper ship in 2023, which offered valuable insights into how creating a positive culture of well-being can play a crucial role in retaining quality talent. Delivering the speech was Chris Misselbrook and his messages can be utilised effectively in education to make a lasting difference. The core of Misselbrook's message revolved around the concept of empathetic leadership and its profound impact on mitigating the adverse effects of stress and fostering a supportive work environment.
Misselbrook's presentation began by addressing the retention crisis, a challenge acutely felt in education. Stress levels among professionals, especially the younger generations, are alarmingly high. In 2023, 46% of UK Gen Z and 39% of UK millennials reported feeling stressed all or most of the time, surpassing the global average. These figures underscore the gravity of the mental health challenges faced by individuals in the education sector.
Empathetic leadership emerged as a critical factor in alleviating the negative effects of these heightened stress levels. Empathetic leadership in a work environment has the profound capacity to elevate oxytocin levels among team members. When leaders demonstrate genuine concern for the well-being and emotions of their team members, it triggers a release of oxytocin, often referred to as the "bonding hormone." This physiological response fosters a sense of trust, safety, and emotional connection within the team. As oxytocin surges, individuals are more inclined to reciprocate with increased trust, empathy, and social bonding. This heightened state of emotional connection leads to a more cohesive and supportive work environment. Team members feel valued and understood, leading to improved collaboration, higher job satisfaction, and ultimately, increased productivity. Moreover, an environment characterised by empathetic leadership and elevated oxytocin levels is conducive to greater creativity, problem-solving, and a collective sense of purpose. In essence, empathetic leadership sets the stage for a positive feedback loop of trust and connection that empowers teams to thrive.
Furthermore, empathetic leadership acts as a buffer against the detrimental effects of stress hormones. By inhibiting cortisol, the stress hormone, leaders can reduce feelings of self-doubt, and vulnerability among their team members. In an industry such as education, where emotional safety is paramount, this can be a game-changer. It encourages open communication and normalises vulnerability, creating a positive culture of well-being.
The principles of empathetic leadership, explained in Misselbrook's presentation, offer actionable steps that can be applied in an educational context.
The following can all increase the sense of value and belonging among educators:
- Training in empathy
- Active listening
- Emotional intelligence
While the following can solidify the positive culture of wellbeing:
- Leading by example
- Prioritising mental well-being
- Recognising the contributions of staff.
These actions, when consistently implemented, can significantly impact the retention of quality talent in education and help foster an environment where staff desire to work.
The statistics from Randstad's well-being survey emphasise the urgency of addressing mental health and well-being. By fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and support, educational institutions can not only attract top talent but also retain them, ultimately leading to a more successful and fulfilling educational experience for both educators and students. Chris Misselbrook's insights and principles are not just relevant but imperative for the education sector's journey towards enhanced well-being and staff retention.
For some further reading around this topic you can read our report into health and well-being in the public sector featuring key insights from workers across the care and education industries.
