Supporting Your Team To Avoid End-of-Term Burnout
The irony never escaped me. While the rest of the UK was locked in the annual debate about whether Christmas should start in November or wait until December 1st, in my household, Christmas didn’t officially begin until I ran through the door on the last day of term.
After weeks of rushing round, being all things to all people, singing the carols, eating the mince pies and spending a small fortune on drinks for the staff at the Xmas do, I’d get home after that last day, fling my bags into a corner, bark orders like a drill sergeant, and spend the next 48 hours in a blur of activity: lists, mince pies, frantic Amazon orders, questionable 3 a.m supermarket trips, and debit card gymnastics. I thought I was masterfully juggling it all—making the end of term perfect for my staff and pupils while ensuring Christmas was magical for my family.
But now, looking back, I can see the truth: I wasn’t giving anyone—my staff, my pupils, or my family—the best version of me. I was running on empty, pouring from a cup that was bone dry.
And I wasn’t alone. Many of my colleagues were in the same boat, putting everyone else first and paying the price with exhaustion and burnout.
Strategies for Supporting Staff Well-being
Agree on Clear Boundaries:
Set a definitive date for the transition from formal lessons to festive activities. This prevents unnecessary stress and ensures consistency for both pupils and staff. A shared agreement helps everyone feel supported and reduces feelings of guilt or resentment.
Why this matters: Clarity and predictability allow staff to focus their energy without being blindsided by last-minute changes.
Celebrate the Team:
Find meaningful ways to thank your staff for their hard work. Whether it’s a shared breakfast, personalised notes of appreciation, or a small treat in pigeonholes, these gestures go a long way.
Why this matters: Recognition boosts morale and shows staff their efforts are valued, especially during busy periods.
Create Flexibility With a 'PPA Swap-Shop':
During the second half of the term, introduce a “PPA Swap-Shop” noticeboard in the staffroom. Staff can request specific days or times they need off—for example, to attend their child’s nativity play or carol concert—and colleagues can volunteer to cover those lessons. This simple initiative ensures no one has to miss out on their family’s milestones.
Why this matters: Supporting staff in their personal lives strengthens their sense of belonging and loyalty to the school.
Provide Time to Recharge:
Avoid scheduling unnecessary meetings or deadlines in the final days of term. Instead, create space for staff to focus on pupils, wrap up their work, and mentally prepare for the break ahead.
Why this matters: Time is one of the most valuable gifts you can offer—it helps reduce pressure and allows staff to approach the break feeling more balanced.
Encourage Connection and Fun:
Create opportunities for staff to bond and decompress. Whether it’s a festive jumper day just for staff, a hot chocolate station, a light-hearted quiz, or simply shared tea and biscuits, moments of connection remind colleagues that they’re part of a team.
Why this matters: Building camaraderie helps staff navigate the challenges of the term and feel supported.
Model Self-Care and Realism:
As a leader, you set the tone. Be open about the importance of rest and balance, and show your team that it’s okay to prioritise their well-being. Acknowledge that perfection isn’t necessary—what matters is the intention behind the effort.
Why this matters: When leaders model healthy boundaries, it gives permission for others to do the same without guilt.
Introduce a ‘Well-Being Window’:
Dedicate a short, midweek period where staff can leave early, come in late, or take an extended break. Even an hour can provide a much-needed breather.
Why this matters: A small token of flexibility can energise staff and show genuine care for their well-being.
The festive season is demanding, but it doesn’t have to leave your staff—or you—burnt out. By prioritising well-being, setting boundaries, and creating a culture of care, you can help your team end the term feeling valued and supported. And who knows? Maybe this year, you’ll even have a little energy left for yourself!
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