In 2020, Nick Hurn OBE, CEO of Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust, set out to transform the treatment of agency staff in schools.
Dissatisfied with the prevailing conditions of minimum wage, self-employed contracts, and the lack of access to sickness pay and other statutory rights, Hurn envisioned a better approach. This vision gave birth to Schools Mutual Services—an innovative, school-owned cooperative that allows schools to have a say in how the service is managed.
Unlike many education recruitment agencies that profit substantially from school budgets, Schools Mutual Services is dedicated to maintaining low costs. The organisation achieves this without imposing inflated margins, ensuring that teaching and support staff receive fair wages, proper contracts, and a comprehensive health and wellbeing service. This includes access to crucial services such as counselling and physiotherapy, setting a new benchmark in the industry.
Since its launch, Schools Mutual Services has seen impressive growth. Starting with a partnership of four schools, it now supports over 200 schools across the North East. This rapid expansion is a testament to the value and impact of their approach. The organisation’s influence is poised to extend further, with plans to expand nationally from September 2024.
The success of Schools Mutual Services has garnered support from education unions, the government, and other related organisations. Its national presence underscores its commitment to ensuring that daily, part-time, and contract workers receive pay and conditions on par with full-time employees.
For education professionals in the North East, this is an excellent opportunity to consider joining Schools Mutual Services. Whether you are seeking supply or contractual work, becoming a member teacher, or a teaching support worker, this progressive organisation offers fair compensation, security, and benefits that traditional agency work often lacks. Schools Mutual Services shines as a beacon of change in a sector where fair treatment and financial prudence are paramount.
By prioritising the welfare of educational staff and ensuring schools retain control over their resources, they are not merely changing the game—they are setting a new, higher standard for all.
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 be rewarded with incentives to refer the service to people you know who are qualified and seeking a position within education.
