Navigating change and uncertainty in education settings: 6 tips for school staff
When was the last time you experienced change or uncertainty at work? How did it make you feel? Here are some evidence-based strategies to protect you from the harmful affects of change or uncertainty.
Articles / 3 mins read
When was the last time you experienced change or uncertainty at work? Perhaps a change to the curriculum, budgets, staffing or something else? How did it make you feel? Often, change or a stressful situation can happen without prior notice, especially for those working in education. Even when you are aware a change is coming, it can feel difficult to prepare for the impact it has on your wellbeing.
Change and transition – what’s the difference?
Change and transition are often used interchangeably, but it can be helpful to consider the distinction. According to author and speaker, William Bridges, change refers to a situation or external factor, while transition refers to the psychological factors or internal experiences we go through in response to the change.
Bridges says that change can happen quickly, while transition usually occurs more slowly. His model on transition highlights three stages of transition that people go through when they experience change:
- Ending, losing, and letting go
- The neutral zone
- The new beginning
Bridges says that people will go through each stage at their own pace; those who are comfortable with the change will likely move ahead to stage three quickly, while others may take longer to get there.
Understanding your stress response
When faced with perceived danger, our body activates the fight, flight, or freeze response, increasing heart rate and releasing cortisol to enhance energy and blood flow while suppressing other functions, like digestion. This natural stress process helps us cope in the short-term but, when triggered continuously, it can harm our mental and physical health. Even after the ‘stressor’ or event has passed, the effects of stress may linger in the body for months. It can therefore be helpful to consider the following evidence-based strategies to protect you from its harmful affects.
Six strategies to navigate change or uncertainty (and reduce the impact of stress):
1. How are you managing stress?
Learn about ‘the stress cycle’ and how to complete it using these 7 evidence-based strategies readily available to teachers and school staff.
2. What is your school culture?
Schools that prioritise psychological safety all-year round will be in a much stronger position to deal with change when it arises. School leaders can complete our psychological safety audit to support staff mental health and wellbeing.
3. What can you control?
The circle of control, influence and concern is a useful tool to help you consider what you can influence and what is out of your control when it comes to change.
4. How do you interpret change and your ability to cope?
Learn about the Transactional model of coping & stress for an insight into your own responses and behaviours.
5. What is your purpose in education?
Taking time to reflect on your practice and reconnect with your ‘why’ is crucial for maintaining perspective during challenging periods.
6. Have you reached out for support?
All teachers and education staff can call Education Support’s free and confidential helpline 24/7 for confidential, emotional support: 08000 562 561. You’ll speak to a qualified counsellor immediately.
Are you a school leader or staff member in Wales dealing with any of the challenges above? The Staff Wellbeing Service can help - follow this link to sign up for funded masterclasses, workshops, professional supervision for school leaders or managers, and a Wellbeing Advisory Service. All at no cost!
Don’t wait for a crisis to call.
We’ll offer you immediate, emotional support.
08000 562 561
Sign up to our newsletter for the latest mental heath and wellbeing resources, news and events straight to your inbox.
