A Modern Workplace That Cares

We spend more time at work and with our colleagues than we do at home with our families. Obviously you have to work so that you can live and as the saying goes you shouldn't live to work. Sadly so many people are working much more than 9 to 5 and are attached to technology that keeps us in touch with work where ever we are.

I've recently changed job and stepped down from a middle management position as well as moving to a different school. The differences in my work situation are enormous. I am without doubt far happier than I was and there are so many factors that are contributing to this that it is hard to put the source of my current state of happiness down to just one factor.

Management at my current school are constantly out and about around the school. They attend class, have lunch with staff, stay in the refectory to speak to students, stand at the entrance as students arrive every day and have a completely open door policy as well as strongly recommending that you call them in the middle of night if you have a medical emergency so that they can personally help you. I have been amazed by their genuine friendliness and care for the staff and students. They are also realistic. They recognise that we work hard and fully expect and encourage us to leave at 3pm on a Friday. 

I love to exercise and with time I have to leave for work it isn't happening in the morning. I have previously worked in an environment where they were happy for you to swim or run in a free period. However, with the length of my hair I would end up not looking very professional by my next class if I did this. We are welcome to use all of the facilities at work, and an added bonus I discovered in my first full week is that a yoga instructor comes to school twice a week. Even more excitingly the bi-weekly yoga classes are free.

Friday's have become a rather special occasion. A teacher has set up a cake roster. Every Friday 2 teachers bring in copious amounts of cake which is eagerly consumed at break. Some staff have already proven their culinary and decorative skills. I am feeling somewhat concerned about my week to bring cake as the standards are high. The presence of cake draws all staff to the staff room on a Friday and conversation is lively as the cake keeps the mood positive.

In addition to "Cake Friday" lunch features ice cream for dessert. Not the healthiest day of the week, but it does make everyone very happy.

I don't know which element is the most important, but I am recognise how lucky I am to be in a such a positive workplace that shows genuine care for their staff.