Emanuel School recognised as a 5-Star employer by Choice
Sydney’s Emanuel School has been selected as a 5-Star Employer of Choice by The Educator magazine.
Emanuel School has been carefully chosen as one of the top 20 schools nationwide that excel in providing supportive, inclusive, and aspirational environments for their staff.
This recognition highlights Emanuel School’s unwavering commitment to fostering a thriving and supportive workplace for its staff. It serves as a testament to the dedication and hard work each individual brings to the school community. Each staff member’s efforts and unwavering commitment to the School’s values have created an environment that is both welcoming and inclusive for students and staff alike. It is through a strong sense of community, dedication to Emanuel students’ success and wellbeing, and steadfast commitment to the School’s core values, that Emanuel School has truly become a remarkable place to work.
Andrew Watt, Principal was one of a handful of Principals who were interviewed by The Educator about the School’s 5-star status commented: “An important cultural aspect is that we try to show how much staff are valued. We try to celebrate their achievements and express gratitude for them.”
He added, “We have a very strong staff voice, and staff have a real input into the decisions that we make, and we run regular surveys with a very strong staff support system. We also have the staff wellbeing committee, who help us to work out what it is that we need to be doing.”
Renee Schneider who has worked as an Educator at Kornmehl Centre Emanuel Pre-school for over 20 years feels that working at the Pre-school has been a privilege. She is a member of the whole-school staff Wellbeing Committee, representing the Pre-school staff. ”I feel that teachers are listened to and what we think and feel is taken on board. I’m proud to be part of the Kornmehl team and Emanuel School.” Each staff member at the School is encouraged to develop themselves personally and professionally. She continues: “I’ve had the opportunity to travel to Italy and Israel for professional development, both amazing experiences”.
Eamon Lukins has been an Emanuel Year 6 teacher for the past four years. He echoes the thoughts of many staff members: “I love working here, I feel that my hard work and dedication is truly valued. The supportive culture and collaborative atmosphere encourages me to continually improve as an educator. It’s a place where I can truly make a difference in the lives of my students, and that’s incredibly rewarding.”
For many, a significant drawcard to working at Emanuel is the School’s inclusive culture that values everyone’s voice and contribution. Remington Owen, Music Teacher feels “…truly valued by the staff, from my immediate team all the way up to the School’s executive and leadership team. Particularly meaningful to me is the way in which the school’s executive care about the personal lives of teachers, announcing news as if updating the family, demonstrating genuine happiness for good news, and offering support in more difficult times.
“There is a culture of collaboration within the School, with staff often going outside of their official duties to help each other out with both professional and personal issues. In terms of the facilities, having access to a fully equipped gym is very handy and the teaching/learning spaces are well looked after. I appreciate the fact that Emanuel School feels more like an extended family.”
These three staff members’ journeys exemplify Emanuel School’s commitment to nurturing the personal and professional growth of its staff members. By providing opportunities for development, fostering a sense of community, and embracing holistic wellbeing, Emanuel School continues to empower its employees to thrive in all aspects of their lives.