Hear from our employees

Read blogs and quotes from teachers across our trust as they share their experiences and the difference flexible working has made in their lives.

Putting wellbeing first: how flexible working is transforming teaching at Dixons

We know that when teachers have time to breathe, plan, and recharge, both they and their students benefit. That’s why we introduced a flexible day for all teachers across our trust; a flexible working approach designed to support wellbeing, balance, and sustained professional excellence. 

Jennifer Devine, English Teacher and Pioneer of Culture at Dixons Newall Green Academy, shared how her flexible day has transformed her working life. 

“My nine-in-ten day has had a major impact on my wellbeing, happiness, and the ability to do my job,” Jennifer said. “It allows me to catch up on work and feel ready and stress-free during my school days.” 

Jennifer uses her tenth day strategically. 

“I usually spend the morning catching up on lesson plans and presentations for the next two weeks. After that, I take time for myself, and enjoy pilates classes, meeting friends, catching up with family, exploring Manchester, or even attending theatre productions.” 

This blend of professional focus and personal time helps her return to school refreshed and fully prepared. 

“Not only do I feel caught up, but I feel more patient and able to engage with students. Any extraneous workload has been dealt with, so I can really focus on quality first teaching and pedagogy.” 

For Jennifer, the benefits extend beyond wellbeing. 

“Having a flexible day makes me more efficient and responsive in school. I feel I can engage in meaningful conversations outside of lesson time and have more to give to my colleagues. My teaching practice has improved because I can use my planning time more efficiently, delve into live marking, and focus on adaptive teaching.” 

Her role as a pioneer of culture also benefits from flexible working: 

“I have more time to catch up on communications with Manchester Citizens and to plan initiatives that will have the biggest impact for our students.” 

For Jennifer, the true value of the nine-day fortnight is being fully present, for students, colleagues, and herself. 

“I can enjoy my work knowing that I am prepared, fully rested, and able to give my students the attention and focus they deserve.” 

Click here to read more about how we’re leading the way in flexible working for teachers. 

Flexible working in action: Hamza's story

At Dixons, we believe that when teachers have the time and space to thrive, students do too.  

For Hamza Latif, History Teacher, Dixons Trinity Academy, the initiative has been transformative, both personally and professionally. 

“The nine-day fortnight has had a profound impact on my wellbeing and mental health,” Hamza said. “It gives me the time to slow down rather than rush through everything. It’s like a breath of fresh air.” 

Hamza explained that the rhythm of having that tenth day has changed how he experiences teaching. 

“It’s one of the reasons I chose to work at Dixons, it’s innovative and it puts the people who are changing lives at the forefront. This initiative has brought back the joy in teaching for me. I feel clear-headed, recharged, and ready to give my best to the students we support at Dixons.” 

For Hamza, his tenth day is a day for reflection, growth, and connection. 

“I love having a Friday as my tenth day,” he said. “It feels like an extended weekend, I can hit the gym, complete my 10K steps, and spend time with my loved ones. Sometimes I’ll go on a long drive with friends or a family cinema trip, knowing I’ve earned that reward for the hard work I’ve put in.” 

Hamza also uses the time to plan, prepare, and reset. 

“I’ll skim over lesson plans, catch up on emails, or think ahead to the next term,  but it’s all on my terms. Without this day, I’d be saying no to family or friends. Now, I can say yes more often and that balance makes a real difference.” 

While the other nine days are full, from lessons to duties to supporting students, Hamza says the tenth day makes it all feel more sustainable. 

“That tenth day is a life-changer. It gives me autonomy and flexibility. I can plan, reflect, and look ahead without the noise of a busy school day. I feel fresh and motivated when I return, like I’ve hit reset.” 

The benefits have rippled into every part of his role. 

“It’s supported my wellbeing massively. I’m more energised, more present, and more joyful in the classroom. I can give my students the best version of me, instead of what’s left of me.” 

At Dixons, our flexible working policy is part of a wider commitment to making teaching a sustainable and fulfilling career. It’s about valuing people, building balance, and reimagining what’s possible in education. 

For Hamza, that approach has made all the difference. 

Nick’s story: the small changes making a big difference at Dixons

When teachers have balance, students succeed, that’s why our flexible day empowers staff to recharge and refocus. 

Nick Rogers, Assistant Vice Principal for Personal Development) at Dixons Brooklands Academy, shared how the initiative has given him a new perspective on work-life balance.  

“I look forward to my nine-in-ten day, not in the same way as a weekend, but as a working day where I can do valuable weekday activities, like taking my daughter to nursery; things that would otherwise be difficult for me.”  

For Nick, his tenth day isn’t just about work, it’s a chance to participate in family life in ways he couldn’t do without flexible working.  

“On my nine-in-ten day, I can drop my daughter at nursery, look after my son while my wife goes to the gym, and help out with domestic tasks. They’re small things, but they make a real difference and support my family in meaningful ways.”  

This combination of personal and professional focus has changed how Nick approaches his workweek.  

“I do work on my tenth day, but away from distraction. It gives me headspace to focus on larger tasks and important projects. It effectively becomes a work-from-home day, and I’m always grateful for that.”  

For Nick, the value of our nine-day fortnight is clear:  

“The biggest benefit for me is being able to support my family more, in small but meaningful ways. It’s given me a better sense of balance and control and that makes me more focused and present in my professional role too.”  

Click here to read more about how the nine-day fortnight is transforming life at Dixons.  

Staff stories

Read more about Simon's journey at Dixons here.

Read more about Aroosa's journey at Dixons here.

Read more about Joel's journey at Dixons here.