Children's mental wellbeing is very important and it can be a very difficult balancing act as children grow up, especially during challenging times as they experience life events.
Although we are very proud that SIAMS (2016) recognised our caring culture and that OFSTED (2022) identified that pupils’ wellbeing and welfare is our priority and one of our strengths, we know that wellbeing is something that continually needs development and support, especially in an evolving and challenging world for our whole community.
At St Michael & All Angels, we believe in promoting positive mental health and emotional wellbeing. Prioritising the wellbeing of students and staff ensures that effective teaching and learning can take place, and that the school is a community where everyone feels able to thrive.
There are many links and documents to support families at the bottom of this page.
We regularly run parent workshops in conjunction with local providers such as OpenMinds on topics such as 'Social Media and Wellbeing', Keeping Children Safe' and 'Anxiety' which cover a broad spectrum of ways to keep children safe.
We have regular SEN and Pastoral Drop In Sessions for parents which are advertised on the school calendar and correspondence. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any queries or concerns in the meantime.
School has a number of staff with the 'Young People Mental Health First Aid' qualification which means they have skills and knowledge to begin support young people as they develop into young adults and deal with common difficulties they may experience. We also work alongside outside agencies and can refer children or families if you require more support or help. If you need any help numbers please do ask.
Our Learning Mentor, Mrs Westby supports families and pupils and you can use the contact box below to get in touch with her directly. There are some links at the bottom of the page that are useful in supporting positive wellbeing.
Advice for parents to support their children at home
http://surestartchildrenscentresnhp.org.uk/
https://www.family-action.org.uk/
https://www.careforthefamily.org.uk/
What to do when your child says "I'm dumb"
Dealing with behaviour in a restorative way
http://www.behaviourmatters.org.uk/a-restorative-approach-to-parenting/
Local mental health support for children and adults
www.openmindscalderdale.org.uk
https://unmaskedmentalhealth.co.uk/
Calming techniques
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wf5K3pP2IUQ&safe=true Cosmic Kids is great for Yoga.
https://www.kidsyogastories.com/integrate-yoga-at-home/
Phrases for calming anxious children
Returning to school