‘Pupils show a strong understanding of the importance of mental health for their age. This is promoted by staff who ensure suitable strategies are embedded in lesson plans and that pupils have opportunities for mindfulness. The highly effective pastoral care provided by the staff helps pupils to better understand their emotions and have strategies to help themselves feel good. Pupils and staff benefit from opportunities to nourish their well-being due to a highly supportive governing body‘. ISI Report Feb 2022
At Laleham Lea School, we are committed to supporting the emotional health and wellbeing of our Pupils, Staff and whole community. We have a supportive and caring ethos and our approach is respectful and kind, where each individual and contribution is valued.
We have a fully trained Metal Health First Aider to support Students and Staff with any issues that may be affecting them and their well being.
At our school we:
help children to understand their emotions and feelings better
help children feel comfortable sharing any concerns or worries
help children socially to form and maintain relationships
promote self esteem and encourage children to be confident
help children to develop emotional resilience
We promote a mentally healthy environment through:
Promoting our school values and encouraging a sense of belonging
Promoting pupil voice and opportunities to participate in decision-making (School Council)
Celebrating all Student achievements both academic and non-academic (Our ‘Star Assembly’ celebrates all Student achievements each week, from Ballet Certificates, to Music Gradings and everything in between).
Providing opportunities to take responsibility for themselves and others (Year 6 Pupils are give ‘Promotions’ to rolls of responsibility including Prefects, Sports’ Captains and Eco-Warriors).
Access to appropriate support that meets their needs.
Students are encouraged to talk about any concerns or worries they have and Children’s Mental Health Week provides an excellent focal point for discussions, assemblies and workshops to help Students better understand their own mental health needs and those of others.
We recently undertook a Staff Wellbeing Survey (Dec 2020) to better understand our Staff support requirements and all Staff have access to a variety of wellbeing training and resources to help them in their personal and professional lives.
Links to further resources that Parents may find useful:
https://mindedforfamilies.org.uk/young-people
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/childrens-mental-health/