From the Teacher Support Network, www.teachersupport.info.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!

This week, the BBC reported a successful reduction in the number of underperforming secondary schools.

According to government statistics, there are now only 270 schools below the threshold of 30 per cent of pupils achieving five good GCSEs, including English and maths. This is a 40 per cent improvement on last year.

In a recent Department for Children, Schools and Families statement, Ed Balls congratulated local authorities, schools and pupils for the progress.

At Teacher Support Network, we would like to add our own congratulations to those school communities that have seen improvements in standards this year, both within National Challenge schools and elsewhere.

We know from speaking with teachers across the country that the pressure created by league tables, exam results and the public condemnation of underperforming schools can have a terrible effect on the morale of teachers and others within the school community.

There is a clear link between teacher wellbeing and pupils learning more effectively. We believe that recognising the work that teachers undertake in order to bring about the successful education of pupils in their school is a crucial element of improving wellbeing and standards in education.

As a charity, we offer emotional and practical support to teachers across Great Britain and can help individuals experiencing the pressures of the very public scrutiny that schools experience. Nevertheless we believe it is the responsibility of central government, local authorities and schools themselves to credit the efforts of teachers to improve pupil performance, particularly in difficult social circumstances, and enact meaningful policies that protect and promote their wellbeing.

If you would like any support regarding the pressures of you schools performance, or any other issue, you can call our Support Lines for free and in confidence on 08000 562 561 (England), 08000 855 088 (Wales) or 0800 564 2270 (Scotland). Lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Alternatively, why not have a look at the following factsheets?

• Tips on coping with exam pressure
• Dealing with stress
• Scale and impact of extra working hours and overtime
• Stress - understanding stress and dealing with it