Your Child’s Wellbeing
Children’s mental health and wellbeing has become a focus over the last few years. With a range of issues surrounding social media, self- esteem, social mobility and diet, among many others, it is clear that there is a nationwide concern emerging around children’s mental health- with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge now heavily involved with Place2Be. Improving children’s mental health in schools – Place2Be
What’s also apparent is that this issue is not specific to any particular age group, with children in primary schools, secondary schools and further education being recognised. It is fair to say that there is no ‘magic fix’ to this, but at St Mary’s we are always trying to think of new ways to support children’s mental health and the worries they may have, whether it be nurture groups, breakfast club, Early Help Assessments (EHAs), liaising with parents/carers or simply providing time out for a child to speak to our key workers or a member of staff.
As of spring 2020, we have also created St Mary’s first Mental Wellbeing Team with our very own Well Being Ambassadors from Year 5 and Year 6. Our Wellbeing ambassadors all receive training to ensure they are fully equipped to carry out their role in school and are supported by Mrs Ash and the rest of the Wellbeing Team. All of our Wellbeing Ambassadors wear a badge to make sure they are visible to the children and staff. Our Staff Wellbeing Team also wear badges. We also have a Wellbeing Governor, Mr Dave Hawksworth, who is also our Chair of Governors.
You will find pictures of our current group of Ambassadors and our Staff Wellbeing Team on the website. There is also a wellbeing section on the school Newsletter with information and news for parents/ carers. Also keep an eye out on our school Facebook and Twitter for any updates.
Here is our Wellbeing mascot who was designed by one of our talented ex-pupils.
Mental Health, whether it is for children or adults, can have a rather negative stigma attached to it, yet we believe that by raising the profile of this very important issue then only good things can come from it. We place great emphasis on the welfare of our school community and provide support, information, and guidance to help everyone at our school feel happy. We also celebrate the diverse and inclusive nature of our school community and recognise the faiths, beliefs, and needs to be held by all.
SUPPORTING YOUR CHILD’S TRANSITION TO SECONDARY SCHOOL