“Supporting everyone’s emotional wellbeing and mental health, so that they can be listened to, are happy together and ready to learn”.

It is widely recognised that a child’s emotional health and wellbeing influences their cognitive development and learning, as well as their physical and social health and their mental wellbeing in adulthood. The Department for Education recognises that, in order to help their pupils succeed: schools have a role to play in supporting them to be resilient and mentally healthy.

“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 Organisation 2014)

At St. Mary's, we aim to promote positive mental health for every child, parent / carer and staff.  We pursue this using both universal, whole school and specialised approaches for identified vulnerable pupils and families.

 

On Mental Health day the whole school spent time thinking about, and practising, their personal strategies to keep themselves mentally healthy.

Children made bracelets with their strategy on as a reminder.

As part of "Time to Talk Day", in February 2023 we spent time thinking about the importance of talking and sharing your problems with others. 

On Youngminds Mental Health Awareness day 2023 children wore yellow and raised funds to support the Youngminds charity. 

Every child is taught and supported to develop their own mental health strategies