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This topic explains employers’ duties regarding employment contracts and written statements of particulars and also covers the implications of changing the terms of an employee’s contract.

Pupils with medical needs have the same rights of admission to school as other pupils. They should be supported so that they have full access to school life, including school trips and sports activities.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) defines lone workers as those who work by themselves without close or direct supervision.

“Drugs” refers to all types of drugs, including medicines, volatile substances, alcohol, tobacco and illegal or controlled drugs. As part of their pastoral responsibilities, schools have a role to play in preventing the misuse of drugs. Drug education is, therefore, an important part of the curriculum for all schools. It must be relevant and appropriate and must also match the needs of the pupils by taking account of the school’s social and demographic context.

The Covid-19 pandemic led to a number of changes in the way that schools were able to operate. Staff and pupils had to get used to social distancing and the wearing of face coverings when required. This has been a challenging situation and it is important for headteachers, school principals, governors, proprietors, or trustees to be familiar with the latest government guidance.

All schools are expected to be autonomous, self-managing and self-improving institutions. They are best placed to identify their own strengths and areas for development. They now have much more data and information to support self-evaluation, but, evidence, particularly data, must be used selectively and corroborated. In Ofsted terminology the word is “connected”.

This topic provides practical tips on how to put in place workplace policies that support those struggling with their mental health.