Mental Health
Our recent OFSTED report (September 2023) noted that, 'Pupils said that staff care about their mental health and well-being, as well as their learning. They spoke positively about the support they receive from staff. Pupils trust adults at the school to resolve any worries or concerns that they may have.'
At St John's we believe that the mental health of our school family is paramount. We have a number of means of support within school and will also work with outside agencies when required.
Whole school
All children follow a weekly program called My Happy Mind (https://myhappymind.org/programmes/school-programme/). The children work through different modules during the year with the aim to give them preventative tools to thrive at school and have the skills to deal with any challenges they face.
Our teachers are very caring and develop a strong and nurturing relationship with the children. The children are able to approach any member of staff with a problem. They can also share their worries in PSHE lessons and by putting a note in the 'Ask it basket.'
The PSHE curriculum provides time and space for children to explore aspects of mental health appropriate to their age. For example the topics include, 'How can I recognise my feelings?' and 'How do I stay active and sleep well?'
Groups and individuals
Sometimes children need more support. At St John's we ensure staff are trained to spot signs of concern and how to support children. We recognise that sometimes children need additional expertise and we will work with families to refer to the appropriate agencies.
We have a family support worker, Ali Mottram, who can work with children and their families on a range of issues such as bereavement, anxiety or anger. We also work with other agencies in school and have, for instance, employed a play therapist one day a week this year.
In addition, we are working with a therapy dog for children. Phoebe is fully qualified to work with children and we believe this will add another opportunity to support children in school. Please see the risk assessment below and get in touch if you have any questions.
If you have any concerns, or want to discuss more, then please get in touch with us. You can ring on 01625 428 222 or email on admin@sjsmacc.cheshire.sch.uk.
