Paula’s story

Paula, an Education Support Officer, took part in a one-day Grit programme for Kent Virtual School staff.

The training confirmed that we really matter as a team. It proved how well we work together and that we have similar goals and values.  Activities helped us explore and delve that much deeper. I really enjoyed sharing the day with work colleagues. We don’t often get training that’s about supporting us. It’s often about supporting the young people.  

And that felt important. Our job can be stressful. We’re working with young people who’ve experienced trauma, and because we’re all caring people by nature, it’s so important that we remember to look after ourselves to enable others.

The team has grown quickly during the past year, with lots of new people from different employment backgrounds. It can be a little overwhelming for newcomers to the service so it was great to have some fabulous exercises that helped everyone feel included. We built on strengths, tackled weaknesses, and left with a great sense of belonging 

We shared some things we don’t normally talk about at work. Some of it was a little out of the norm and comfort zone but it helped us find out a little more about each other.  Sometimes each other’s more vulnerable side.  You appreciate colleagues in different ways. We have a great team and the training helped enforce the importance of this in our work. The activities explored awareness of each other and has helped strengthen bonds. 

Personally, it’s even pushed me to commit to better self-care - I’ve started Pilates at lunch or before work. It’s making a difference to both work and home life.  This was as a result of an discussion activity during the training. 

All in all, Grit was a very affirming experience. If we’re in the right place, both personally, and in synch with the team we can better support and enable young people and professionals.