You Can’t Pour from an Empty Cup: The Role of Supervision in Staff Wellbeing (and Why It’s Not Counselling)
You see it daily—the tired eyes, the shortened tempers, the incredible effort your staff put into their roles, even when they’re running on empty. Teachers today are navigating complex student needs, rising workloads, and emotionally charged situations, all while trying to maintain high standards and meet school goals.
When a staff member starts to burn out, the typical advice is to “take care of yourself” or seek personal counselling. But what if the stress isn’t personal? What if the real weight comes from the work itself?
That’s where clinical supervision comes in—and why it’s time for leadership to consider it a vital part of any wellbeing strategy.
Supervision Is Not Counselling—It’s Professional Support
Unlike counselling, which focuses on personal issues, clinical supervision offers a structured space for staff to reflect on the emotional impact of their professional roles. It helps them process student behaviour, classroom challenges, safeguarding concerns, and the invisible load of being the “safe adult” for so many.
It’s not therapy—but it is deeply therapeutic.
Supervision supports the professional self—the teacher who goes home thinking about that distressed student, or who carries the emotional residue of a safeguarding disclosure. It helps prevent those feelings from accumulating and causing long-term harm.
A Model That Recognises the Whole Picture
One of the most effective approaches to supervision is the Seven-Eyed Model by Hawkins and Shohet. I chose to train in this model because it advocates for supervision across all helping professions—not just therapists. It recognises that teaching is emotional work and that staff deserve a space to reflect not only on what happened, but how it felt, how it was handled, and how wider systems influence it all.
This holistic model gives teachers clarity, emotional regulation, and the resilience to stay present and effective in their work.
The Case for Supervision in Schools
Research consistently shows that burnout leads to higher staff turnover and lower student outcomes. On the other hand, schools that invest in staff wellbeing see:
- Increased staff retention
- Improved morale and collaboration
- Better student engagement and support
When supervision is part of your school’s rhythm, it says to staff: your wellbeing matters, your emotional load is valid, and we’re here to support you professionally.
What Can You Do Now?
If your staff are showing signs of stress or overwhelm, here are some actions you can take today:
- Start the conversation. Ask your staff what support they actually need—not just what’s on offer.
- Pilot supervision. Introduce group or individual supervision for teachers, pastoral teams, or DSLs.
- Protect time. Make reflective spaces part of the school week, not just an add-on.
- Champion wellbeing. Move beyond posters and token gestures. Make systems of support part of your leadership strategy.
Wellbeing Is Not a Luxury—It’s a Leadership Priority
As school leaders, you set the tone. When you build systems that care for your staff, you create a culture where everyone can thrive—including your students.
I’m passionate about helping schools implement practical, meaningful supervision structures that support the people who give so much of themselves every day. If you’re ready to explore what this could look like in your setting, I’d love to help.
Because teacher wellbeing isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. And the schools that shine are the ones that choose to care, from the top down.
I will be launching a Waiting List soon for those who would like to work with me during the next school year. Contact me or keep an eye out on LinkedIn.
