In 2020, Nick Hurn OBE, CEO of Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust, launched an ambitious initiative to transform how agency staff are treated in schools.
Frustrated with the common practice of minimum wage, self-employed contracts, and lack of benefits such as sickness pay, Hurn sought a superior alternative. This led to the creation of Schools Mutual Services, a unique, school-owned service that allows schools to control its operations.
While many educational recruitment agencies significantly drain school budgets for profit, Schools Mutual Services is dedicated to maintaining low costs. By avoiding high margins, the organisation ensures that teaching and support staff receive fair wages, proper contracts, and extensive health and wellbeing services, including counselling and physiotherapy, thereby setting a new industry benchmark.
Since its establishment, Schools Mutual Services has seen exceptional growth. Initially collaborating with just four schools, the service now supports over 200 schools across the North East. This swift expansion highlights the effectiveness and appeal of their approach. The organisation plans to extend its reach nationally from September 2024.
Schools Mutual Services has earned support from education unions, the government, and other relevant organisations. Its national presence underscores its commitment to providing daily, part-time, and contract workers with pay and conditions comparable to those of full-time staff.
For education professionals in the North East, this is an ideal time to join Schools Mutual Services. Whether you are seeking supply or contract work, becoming a member teacher, or a teaching support worker, this progressive organisation offers fair compensation and the security and benefits that traditional agency work often lacks.
Schools Mutual Services is a beacon of change in a sector where fair treatment and financial prudence are critical. By prioritising the welfare of educational staff and giving schools control over their resources, they are not only changing the game but setting a new, higher standard for everyone.
Join Schools Mutual Services today and become part of a movement that values your contribution and wellbeing while supporting the future of education.
As a mutual business, you will also benefit from incentives to refer the service to qualified individuals looking for positions within the education sector.
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