Workplace disputes can frequently be extremely damaging to a school, with disputes often escalating quickly, and typically leading to lower morale, lower productivity, higher staff turnover and employment tribunal claims.
It can be difficult to prevent disputes arising and also to deal with them when they do. Workplace mediation can be used for disputes between both teaching and non-teaching staff.
Workplace mediation is a voluntary process, usually arranged by the school, where two or more employees agree to attend a meeting with an impartial mediator. The mediator works with the employees in helping them to negotiate their own resolution and create an agreed way forward.
There will usually be three meetings: one with each of the employees (by Zoom) and then a joint meeting with both employees (usually in person).
The benefits of workplace mediation include: it is cost efficient, avoiding legal fees and employment tribunal claims; it is quick; it seeks to restore relationships; it tries to improve staff morale; it seeks to reduce absenteeism; it aims to reduce stress; and it maintains confidentiality.
Stephen Wood Mediation can offer workplace mediations in schools or neutral venues in and around Oxford. If you are a head teacher, principal, governor, HR manager or other interested party, call Stephen Wood on 07906 200 469 to discuss how workplace mediation may assist with your school workplace dispute.
