When you hear the word workload, what comes to mind?
For many educators, it is the endless list of tasks, late nights, and the feeling that there is never quite enough time or energy to get it all done. But what if workload was not only about hours and tasks, but about clarity, purpose, and how we design the way we work in schools?
In this episode of the School of Wellbeing podcast, I sit down with Amy Green, educator, thought-leader, and author of Teacher Wellbeing and Leading Wellbeing.
Together we unpack what workload really means, why clear processes matter, and how schools can create the conditions that allow both staff and students to thrive.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How to redefine what counts as meaningful workload in education.
- Why perfectionism adds to the pressure and how to let it go.
- The importance of clear processes to support new and experienced staff.
- How autonomy, competence, and clarity work together to lighten the load.
- Practical ways to protect and maintain staff energy, motivation and focus.
Who is Amy Green
Amy Green is an educator, thought leader, and author who is passionate about transforming the way schools approach workplace wellbeing.
Through her books Teacher Wellbeing and Leading Wellbeing, she shares frameworks and strategies that help teachers and leaders manage the pressures of modern schooling while staying grounded in purpose and meaning.
Amy brings lived experience, leadership insight, and a deep commitment to helping schools create sustainable ways of working.
Why does this conversation matter?
Workload in education has expanded significantly, and so many teachers are feeling overwhelmed by competing demands. Too often, we only discuss hours and tasks without asking the deeper questions: Is this work meaningful? Is it fit for purpose? Does it still serve our staff and students?
This conversation presents an opportunity to pause and reflect. When we build clarity into our processes, we reduce stress and confusion. When we protect time for deep work, we make space for what really matters. And when we let go of what no longer serves us, we create healthier, more sustainable schools.
You can quote us on that…
“Let’s recognise the autonomy and the power and the control we have to make schools great workplaces for educators.”
Amy Green
“This is where we have to get creative with the things we can control and what exist, rather than thinking, ‘Well, this is just how it is.’”
Amy Green
Contact
Amy Green – Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Books
Want to learn more?
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Hi, I'm Meg!
B.Phys Ed, M. Ed (Student Wellbeing), CIPP
I’m a teacher with experience working in primary and secondary schools across Australia, and a specialist in the field of wellbeing education and coaching. I founded Open Mind Education in 2013 with a vision of sharing practical, enriching wellbeing education with staff, parents, and broader school communities.
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