The Optimus blog

The blog that inspires leaders in the UK education sector

The Optimus blog

The blog that inspires leaders in the UK education sector

Health and safety management

Elizabeth Holmes

How can schools support staff with long Covid?

Long Covid describes the effects of Covid-19 that continue for weeks or months. Elizabeth Holmes explores how t o reduce transmission in classrooms and help staff suffering from the condition. Long Covid, or Post-Covid condition or syndrome, is devastatingly impacting those who suffer from it...
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Elizabeth Holmes

Managing anxiety in challenging times

The changing and challenging circumstances we find ourselves in are creating a wave of anxiety, particularly for those working in schools. Elizabeth Holmes looks at what to do and where to go for help. This is unquestionably an anxiety-inducing time. As I write, there have been challenging words...
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John Viner

Preparing for the worst, hoping for the best: what impact could Brexit have on schools?

No one knows what a disorderly Brexit could mean for education, but we need to be prepared. How should schools respond to the potential disruption which may follow? The local authority officer looked across the room. “We are,” he said, “preparing for the worst, but rather hoping it won’t be as bad...
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Alex Masters

Premises management brick by brick

Alas, for many SBMs, this summer holiday will involve more contractors and collateral warranties than camping and cruises. Check out our expert advice to help your building projects run smoothly. I’m starting to think that school business managers might actually be superhuman. Not only do they have...
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Lizzie Gait

Risk assessment: ensuring staff and pupil safety

Lizzie Gait explores the key steps for carrying out a robust risk assessment to ensure staff and pupil safety, and full compliance with your obligations. Keeping up with the legal obligations of a school can be difficult for school business managers, especially since it doesn’t always fall under...
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Alex Masters

Health and safety: a model policy

Health and safety is always a priority for SBMs, especially at the beginning of a new term. Our updated model policy will ensure you’ve got everything covered. Summary The autumn term is the time to review your health and safety policy. We have an updated health and safety model policy to download...
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