"Reflective Practice is the process by which individuals critically examine their own actions, experiences, and professional development to gain deeper insights, improve their practice, and enhance their personal and professional growth..."

 "School staff are often the first to support families facing trauma and adversity, hearing stories from children and young people and adults that can be deeply heartbreaking. These may include experiences of violence, homelessness, bereavement, neglect, or abuse.

At the same time, many staff work tirelessly to meet the needs of children and adults with learning difficulties, emotional and mental health challenges, or physical disabilities—all while trying to hit academic targets, often with limited training and resources.

It’s understandable that staff can feel frustrated when services aren’t available or helpless when they can’t offer the level of support they know families need. The emotional weight of making tough decisions, especially those that impact others’ wellbeing, can lead to self-doubt and 'what ifs.' This, coupled with the daily pressures of teaching, leadership, and other responsibilities, can feel overwhelming and exhausting.

School staff give so much of themselves to their work, and it’s vital to acknowledge their resilience, compassion, and dedication, even when the challenges seem insurmountable."

 "A report by Barnardo's highlights that reflective supervision can reduce burnout and compassion fatigue among teachers, leading to improved retention rates. 

(Supervision in education -healthy schools for all, 2020)

Additionally, the Mulberry Bush Organisation notes that effective supervision is linked to higher job satisfaction and organisational commitment, both crucial for retaining staff. 

(themulberrybush.co.uk)

In the absence of reflective supervision, teachers may struggle to cope with the emotional demands of their roles, potentially leading to increased absenteeism and a higher likelihood of leaving the profession. This is particularly concerning given the ongoing challenges in meeting teacher recruitment targets in the UK. 

(Missing teacher hiring targets, Financial Times, Sept, 2024)

Implementing reflective supervision can therefore be a vital strategy for schools aiming to support their staff's well-being and improve retention rates."