20 staff engaged in apprenticeships and other training to achieve work-based qualifications ranging from Level 3 in finance to postgraduate degrees in business administration.
Investment in systems
Ongoing investment in improved data systems, including the appointment of an additional performance analyst. Initiated implementation of new fundraising and finance systems.
“Between April and June 2023 I had the opportunity to complete a very insightful Mini MBA in Marketing course that not only validated my strategic thinking but also provided me with new tools and knowledge applicable in my day to day work. I am thankful to City Year for creating the space for me to take this online course, ensuring that I have the flexibility neededfor a healthy work-study-life balance.”
– Ruxandra Connolly, Head of Marketing and Communications
Focus on mental health and wellbeing
City Year has been described as ‘a challenge like no other’ and we recognise that it’s often the hardest thing our mentors have ever done. Equally, our staff work extremely hard, in and out of school, to support them.
Since 2021, we’ve made significant progress against our objective to have a responsive and diverse wellbeing programme where specific factors such as inclusion, team dynamics and manager support have an impact:
Monitoring wellbeing
Annual staff and mentor surveys have delivered robust data showing strengths and signposting gaps requiring provision.
Wellbeing training and support
Adapted according to needs identified by survey. Initiated a variety of interventions including workshops on wellbeing and resilience.
“It was great to hear about new strategies to use for myself, like refocusing your mind, but also for my focus list pupils in ‘check ins’.”
City Year mentor 2022-23
Self-care days
2 self-care days a year for staff and mentors.
Connection
Additional staff ‘get togethers’ and monthly ‘drop in’
sessions.
4 out of 5 mentors said their self-care day recharged their energy.
Work / life balance
Supported working practices that encourage better boundaries.
We believe that by genuinely promoting wellbeing, we are more likely to create an organisation where everyone is able to give their best, to be committed to our vision, to feel valued and supported and to have a positive sense of their own wellbeing.
Staff and mentor satisfaction with City Year UK in 2023:
Mentors
90% satisfied with their City Year (up from 82%)
“[City Year staff] are always reminding us that they are there for us and… will happily help us with any issues we have.“
School based staff
89% satisfied with their job (up from 73%)
“My line manager is always supportive of my work and regularly thanks me for what I put in.“
Non-school based staff
75% job satisfaction had improved or stayed the same (up from 59%)
“The well-being sessions have been brilliant… the techniques, plus the monthly check-ins, have enabled me to keep on top of my mental health. I’m very grateful.”
Key achievements in 2022-2023
Focus on mental health and wellbeing
