Posts by JFS Admin
Finding Your Zen in the School Workplace
In a school environment, the pace can be relentless. Bells ringing, students needing guidance, emails piling up, phones ringing, parents waiting, staff meetings running long—it’s no wonder many School Staff struggle to find moments of calm. So let’s ask a simple question: What does Zen look like for you? Is it a walk in silence…
Read MoreYour Future in the School Workplace: Be Ready for Anything
In a school setting, whether you’re working in the front office, supporting students in the classroom, or managing operations behind the scenes, you are the heartbeat of service and support. Parents, students, and school stakeholders are your customers, and your ability to handle difficult conversations and shifting situations often defines the school’s reputation. That’s why…
Read MoreFinding Your X-Factor: What Others See That You Might Miss
Have you ever sat back and thought, What am I actually good at? Not the kind of skills you list on a resume, but the natural talents—the things you do so effortlessly you barely notice them? That question found me in a career crossroads, somewhere between leaving the bank (a previous workplace I really loathed)…
Read MoreWorst-Case Scenario? Yep, Been There. Let’s Talk Solutions
Schools are incredible places of learning, connection, and growth… but they’re also workplaces where worst-case scenarios can and do happen. I’m talking about those moments where your hands start to shake, your heart races, and the only thing you can think is: “How quickly can I get out of this situation?” As someone who’s lived…
Read MoreVenting in the School Workplace: When, How, and Why It Matters
Working in a school can be incredibly rewarding—but let’s be real, it can also be frustrating, overwhelming, and occasionally, downright baffling. From sudden curriculum changes to never-ending emails, school staff face daily challenges that can leave them needing a good vent. But when does venting become unproductive? How do you strike the balance between healthy…
Read MoreDecisions, Decisions! Understanding How and Why Schools Make Them
Decisions, decisions! From the seemingly small choices (should we get blue or black pens?) to the major game-changers (budget allocations, policy updates, or timetable reshuffles), schools are buzzing with decision-making every single day. But why are some decisions made in a blink while others feel like they require a royal decree? And why do some…
Read More“Get on the Train to Success Town!” (And Other Teamwork Sayings We Love to Hate)
Confession time. I used to find teamwork… challenging. Not challenging in terms of the actual work – I could handle that. The real challenge? Interacting with, well, people. Some folks could really push my buttons, others could drain my energy with endless chatter and don’t even get me started on the cheesy teamwork slogans. You…
Read MoreBeyond the To-Do List: The Human Side of School Administration
If you’re new to the school environment, buckle up! This blog post offers a glimpse into what your future might hold. And if you’re a seasoned veteran, it’s a chance to step back, reassess, and maybe even rediscover your passion. Have you ever caught yourself muttering (or maybe even shouting internally): “I could get so…
Read MoreThe Art of Listening: A Guide for School Staff
In the hustle and bustle of school life, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of tasks and deadlines. We’re constantly bombarded with information, notifications, and distractions. But amidst the chaos, one essential skill often gets overlooked: active listening. Active listening is a crucial skill for school staff. Whether you’re interacting with…
Read MoreKnowledge is Power: Empowering Yourself with Lifelong Learning
As a school Business Manager or Leader, you’re constantly navigating a multitude of tasks, from managing budgets to supporting staff and students. You’re often faced with new challenges or unexpected situations. With so much on your plate, it can be easy to overlook the importance of continuous learning – for you. By investing in your…
Read MoreJuggling the School Circus: Balancing Work and Responsibilities
Have you ever felt like you’re juggling chainsaws while riding a unicycle on a tightrope? That’s often the reality of working in a school environment. Between lesson planning, parent meetings, and a never-ending stream of administrative tasks, it can feel like you’re constantly spinning plates and trying to keep everything afloat. But amidst the…
Read MoreTaming the Tough: A Guide to Handling Complaints
Dealing with complaints can be one of the most challenging aspects of working in a school environment. Complaints can be stressful and time-consuming, whether from a concerned parent, a disgruntled student, or a frustrated colleague. However, with the right approach, complaints can be handled effectively and even become opportunities for growth and improvement. The…
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