Recognising Teachers and Staff Who Go the Extra Mile

Schools thrive on the dedication and hard work of their teachers and staff. While pupils often receive awards and recognition, it’s equally important to celebrate the contributions of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make a school a positive and supportive environment. By recognising teachers and staff who go the extra mile, schools can boost morale, improve retention, and foster a culture of appreciation.

To be honest I feel that it's the absolute least we should do to keep our teachers and other staff encouraged to do a great job; I imagine many can relate to idea that many educational institutions rely on goodwill.

Why Acknowledging Staff Contributions Matters

Teachers and staff play an essential role in shaping the school community. From the inspiring teacher who sparks a love for learning to the support staff who ensure the day runs smoothly, every contribution matters. Acknowledging these efforts can:

• Boost Morale: Recognition makes staff feel valued and appreciated, which improves job satisfaction and motivation.

• Encourage Retention: A positive culture of acknowledgment helps reduce staff turnover, saving schools time and resources spent on recruitment.

• Reinforce Teamwork: Celebrating individual achievements fosters a sense of camaraderie and strengthens the team dynamic.

Even though we may not remember the exact lessons our teachers taught us, we always remember how the best teachers made us feel. Many of us can point to an educational leader who inspired us—someone who went above and beyond to nurture relationships and genuinely wished each pupil to succeed. Recognising the staff who carry this same passion keeps these values alive in schools today.

The "Tell Them" Policy: Building a Culture of Gratitude

The "tell them" policy is a simple but powerful idea: express appreciation when someone has made a positive impact. This applies to both staff and pupils. Teachers can acknowledge colleagues for their hard work, and pupils can share their gratitude for teachers who have inspired them. Alumni can even reach out to former teachers to thank them for the difference they made. This ensures that the culture and leadership is Transformational rather than Transactional.

As an Assistant Headteacher, I encouraged this culture of gratitude within my school. Whether it was a handwritten note, a verbal acknowledgment in the staff room, or a formal award during assemblies, recognising others’ contributions strengthened relationships and made our school a more uplifting place to work and learn.

Creative Ideas for Staff Awards

Schools can implement thoughtful and creative ways to recognise their staff. Here are some ideas:

1. Kindness Champion Award: Celebrate staff members who consistently demonstrate kindness and compassion, making the school a welcoming place for all.

2. Creative Leader Award: Recognise teachers or staff who bring innovative ideas to the classroom or school programs.

3. Inspirational Mentor Award: Highlight staff members who go above and beyond to guide and support their colleagues or pupils.

4. Team Player Award: Acknowledge individuals who consistently contribute to team success and foster collaboration.

5. Long-Service Recognition: Honour staff members who have dedicated many years to the school community, showing gratitude for their commitment.

6. Leaving gifts: Create something unique for staff members who retire or move onto pastures new

Sustainable Gifts for Staff Appreciation

In addition to awards, schools can present staff with sustainable gifts as tokens of appreciation. Oak & Black offers eco-friendly, custom-made gifts that align with a school’s values while showing gratitude. Click HERE to view our full product range and click HERE to view our Education brochure that offers our best prices for schools.

The Ripple Effect of Recognition

Acknowledging teachers and staff doesn’t just benefit the recipients; it has a ripple effect throughout the school community. When staff feel valued, they are more likely to go above and beyond in their roles, creating a positive impact on pupils. Additionally, pupils learn by example. A culture of recognition teaches them the importance of expressing gratitude and celebrating others’ efforts.

How Pupils Can Get Involved

Encouraging pupils to acknowledge their teachers or other staff members can make the recognition even more meaningful. Simple gestures, like writing thank-you notes or creating artwork to show appreciation, can brighten a teacher’s day. Schools can also encourage alumni to reach out to former educators to share how they made a difference in their lives.

During my time as a Housemaster and Assistant Headteacher, I saw the profound effect these small gestures had on staff. Pupils who took the time to say “thank you” or share a memory of a meaningful interaction left a lasting impression on their teachers and support staff.

Sustainability in Staff Awards

By choosing sustainable awards and gifts, schools can align their recognition programs with their broader environmental values. Handcrafted wooden awards, reusable trophies, and eco-friendly keepsakes are thoughtful alternatives to traditional gifts, ensuring that the acknowledgment is both meaningful and environmentally conscious.

Oak & Black specialises in creating custom sustainable awards and gifts that help schools celebrate their staff in a way that reflects their commitment to kindness, creativity, and sustainability. These products serve as lasting reminders of appreciation while promoting environmental stewardship.

Conclusion: Celebrating Those Who Inspire

The best schools recognise that their success depends on the dedication and passion of their teachers and staff. By implementing thoughtful recognition programs, schools can foster a culture of gratitude that uplifts everyone in the community. Whether through creative awards, heartfelt gestures, or sustainable gifts, acknowledging those who go the extra mile creates a ripple effect of positivity and inspiration.

As I reflect on my teaching career, I’m reminded of the relationships built through acknowledgment and appreciation. Whether it was a staff member who supported a struggling pupil or a teacher who inspired a lifelong love of learning, these moments of recognition left a lasting impact. Let’s continue to celebrate and honour the individuals who make our schools extraordinary.