Elizabeth Wills, PA and Wellbeing Officer at King Edward VI Balaam Wood Academy, describes her varied day-to-day role, including the most rewarding and challenging aspects of her job.
Describe a ‘typical day’ at work:
A typical day usually starts with the much-envied job of organising cover arrangements for the day and then can freefall into a whirlwind of finance, human resources, marketing and supporting the Headteacher and SLT. I am also the lead for Staff Wellbeing here, so my mind is always on the lookout for my next wellbeing idea!
What do you find most rewarding about your job?
When I receive a little thank you note from a pupil! To say I am not in a pupil-facing role as such, it is incredible that pupils even notice me. It is really easy to build up positive relationships here, and a culture of pupils appreciating the staff is really evident. A little thank you note slipped under my office door or left on my desk really makes me feel like those moments of saying ‘hi’ to a pupil and asking them how they are doing makes a difference.
How have you developed since taking on this role?
I have developed in the sense of knowing that everyone around you has something to teach you. When I was younger, I might have felt intimidated or envious of colleagues’ skillsets. Now, I will pick their brains and try and learn how they do what I want to be able to do. Public speaking is one for me, some people make it look effortless whereas I will have heart palpitations speaking in staff briefing. I have since learned that everyone feels that way, and with practice, you don’t feel the palpitations as much as you once did.
What is something interesting or surprising about you that most people don’t know?
How much I am into Formula One.
What is one important lesson or piece of advice you would give your younger self?
Don’t take any day for granted and make the most of what you have.
