Mental health is a state of well-being in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community. (World Health Organization)
At our school, we aim to promote positive mental health for every member of our staff and all of our pupils. We pursue this aim using both whole school approaches and targeted approaches aimed at vulnerable pupils. By promoting positive mental health, we aim to recognise and respond to mental ill health, and promote a safe and stable environment for pupils affected – directly or indirectly – by mental ill health.
2020
This year we have celebrated Odd Socks Day to get our Anti-Bullying Week off with a bang. It was so great to see so many children in their Odd Socks. We were able to discuss how we are all unique and celebrate our differences. Each class has taken part in assemblies and class activities to discuss the important subject of anti-bullying. I am so proud of how sensibly all our classes have discussed this and they have shown a good understanding of why we must continue to talk about anti-bullying.
Autumn
Summer
Lead Members of Staff
Whilst all staff have a responsibility to promote the mental health of pupils; staff with a specific, relevant remit include:
Duncan White, Executive Headteacher – Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for child protection
Sophie McGuiness, Head of School – Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for child protection
Daniel Bennett, Deputy Headteacher – Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for child protection
Amy Middleton, Deputy Headteacher – Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for child protection
Gemma Jarvis – Mental Health Lead
Emma Crawford – Safeguarding Governor
Teaching about Mental Health
The skills, knowledge and understanding needed by our pupils to keep themselves and others physically and mentally healthy and safe are included as part of our developmental PSHE curriculum.
The specific content of lessons will be determined by the specific needs of the cohort we’re teaching but there will always be an emphasis on enabling pupils to develop the skills, knowledge, understanding, language and confidence to seek help, as needed, for themselves or others.