New Year, New Beginnings for Staff Wellbeing
Monday, 19th January 2026
To mark Blue Monday, Staff Wellbeing Ambassadors at Rivington and Blackrod High School have been using the day as a positive opportunity to focus on staff wellbeing, connection and support by embracing Brew Monday – out with the blue and in with the brew.
Brew Monday is a national initiative that reframes the day as a moment to pause, enjoy a hot drink and check in with ourselves and colleagues. As part of this, the wellbeing ambassadors are hosting a 'Winter Blues' coffee and pastry social for staff, putting into practice ideas focused on connection, reflection and taking time out during the working day.
Last week, the ambassadors also held their first staff wellbeing meeting of 2026, themed 'New Year, New Beginnings'. The session provided an opportunity to reflect on priorities for staff wellbeing across the year ahead. During the meeting, the team planned staff social and enrichment activities, began developing a yearly wellbeing calendar and reviewed suggestions from the Staff Wellbeing Box that can be put into action.
The group was joined by Drew Kelly, Deputy Headteacher and Wellbeing Lead at Lostock Primary School, whose contribution brought a valuable cross-school perspective to the discussion and highlighted opportunities for sharing best practice across the Trust.
One idea emerging from the Staff Suggestion Box was the introduction of short 'Fika' breaks – a Swedish tradition centred around taking time for a drink or snack and connecting with others (without talking about work). Even small moments like these can have a meaningful impact during busy school days.
Andy Tipney, Deputy Headteacher at Rivington and Blackrod High School, said: “It was a really positive way to start the year. It was great to have our wellbeing ambassadors, who represent all departments in the school, both teaching and support, coming together to share ideas and think about what we want to prioritise for staff wellbeing in 2026. It was also valuable to have Drew from Lostock join us and contribute to the discussion.”
Across the Trust, we remain committed to creating supportive, inclusive environments where staff feel valued. We’re looking forward to a year that encourages collaboration and focuses on practical, meaningful ways to support one another across our schools.
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