Is morale dipping? And the usual things aren’t working?
Morale isn’t built in away days, sugar highs, or quick “pick-me-ups.” Those can be nice in the moment — but they fade fast.
Lasting morale comes from tiny moments of care, consistently given. Things that tell your team: “I see you, I value you, and I’m here with you.”
And the ‘I’ can also be ‘we’.
I once worked with a head whose team was flagging towards the end of a tough term. Instead of trying to engineer a big morale “fix,” they introduced a weekly “morale moment.” Staff could suggest and vote on one small thing that week — something simple, meaningful, and doable.
One week it was swapping a staff meeting for a coffee catch-up (but not a leave early – she wanted to foster connection)
Another was everyone writing one “thank you” note for a colleague.
Another week it was an anonymous ‘I think you’re awesome because…’ note
It cost nothing. But the effect was real. Because it wasn’t just a treat — it was a signal: your wellbeing matters here.
Here’s how to make it work in your school:
- Keep it small: something you can deliver without burning cash or energy.
- Make it visible: let staff see it’s been acted on.
- Give them voice: let them choose from their own ideas.
- Keep it regular: the power is in the consistency.
Morale isn’t built on snacks — it’s built on trust and action.
(That said, cake is always nice!)
Here’s to teams that feel seen, supported, and energised,
Sonia ❤️
P.S. For more ideas like this — the ones that make a lasting difference — sign up here for my free School Leadership Tips.