In a recent HeadteacherChat post, one school leader shared that they had run a staff version of The Traitors, the popular television programme, adapted as a light-hearted team game for staff. The result? High levels of engagement, renewed staffroom energy, and a noticeable lift in morale.
This sparked a rich conversation among headteachers about the value of creative, low-cost wellbeing activities that promote staff cohesion. At a time when recruitment and retention pressures are at the forefront of strategic planning, it is increasingly clear that investing in staff wellbeing is not a ‘nice-to-have', it is a leadership priority.
The Role of School Leaders in Creating a Positive Culture
The Department for Education’s Education Staff Wellbeing Charter encourages all schools to “create a culture that values staff wellbeing and mental health.” While this might traditionally be interpreted through policies, workload reviews or access to external support, there is also growing recognition of the value of relational, community-building initiatives.
These do not need to be expensive or time-consuming. What matters is that they are intentional, inclusive, and rooted in genuine care for colleagues.
Ideas That Work: From “The Traitors” to Taskmaster
Here are some of the most effective, well-received ideas shared by school leaders in the discussion:
1. The Traitors (Staff Edition)
Inspired by the TV show, this involved staff completing fun daily challenges, communicating via WhatsApp, and voting on “traitors” in good humour. A resource on TES offers a pre-prepared version for schools to adapt.
2. Taskmaster for INSET
A number of schools have incorporated Taskmaster-style activities into INSET days. These provide moments of levity amidst training sessions and offer opportunities for staff to connect informally.
3. Duck Hunts and Cluedo Challenges
Some leaders shared ideas such as duck hunts (with hidden plastic ducks around the site), or staff Cluedo evenings. While light-hearted, these initiatives foster positive relationships that are essential in high-pressure environments.
4. Scavenger Hunts and Physical Games
Others organised scavenger hunts, indoor curling, or even Sardines around the building. A few reported success using pop culture themes (e.g., “Squid Games” adapted for staff team-building).
5. Regular Lunchtime Games and Social Events
One school leader mentioned a colleague who runs a new game every INSET day lunchtime. Another had implemented a “Friends”-themed games night. These smaller, regular touches can be just as impactful as larger events.
Leadership Reflections
What this post and the subsequent discussion underline is the importance of presence and participation from leadership teams. Staff morale is shaped not just by the policy environment or performance metrics, but by the relational climate leaders intentionally build.
These kinds of wellbeing activities do not remove the real pressures staff face, but they do remind people that they are seen, valued, and part of a wider community.
In the most effective schools, such activities are not bolted-on initiatives. They are part of the school culture, an extension of values already embedded in the way people work together.
Final Thought
Wellbeing is not the job of one person or one afternoon. It is shaped day-by-day by leadership that notices, includes, and prioritises connection. Small, creative ideas like those shared in HeadteacherChat can have a significant impact, particularly when backed by leadership that models participation, humility, and care.