Children’s mental health and well-being, anow more than ever, is being reported on more and more. With a range of issues surrounding social media, isolation, self-esteem, social mobility and diet, among many others, it is clear that there is a nationwide concern developing around children’s mental health - with the the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge active patrons of 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 Markeaton we are always trying to think of new ways to support children’s mental health and the worries they may have, whether it be Hub Club, nurture groups, sessions with our Learning Mentor or Mental Health First Aiders, Bridge the Gap counselling, Breakfast Club, Early Help Assessments (EHAs), liaising with parents/carers or simply providing time out for a child to speak to our Learning Mentor or a member of staff.
Recently, we have also appointed a Designated Senior Leader of Mental Health who meets at least termly to discuss relevant issues in school, challenge negative stigma and enhance the profile of wellbeing around the school. Their role in school is really important so keep an eye on Twitter for any updates. We have also achieved our Silver Award from the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health and Wellbeing which we are super proud of. It means we are able to provide a nurturing environment for the children at our school and are beginning to reach out locally and nationally to share our practice.
*NW* Something else which will continue in 2023/24 is two play therapists being on site. This is an important investment for the school and helps us to support children when they need it.
Mental Health and Wellbeing Action Plan 2023/24
Wellbeing:
New Action Plans for 24/24 coming soon
PE 2022-23
PSHE 2022-23
A message of hope for all our children, parents and carers during the Coronavirus lockdown period. We hope you all enjoy it!
A message of hope video APRIL 2020
Our Community/Nurture/Breakfast/'HubClub' Room!
However, despite all that we do, there is always that worry that someone is not having their voice heard. During Children's Mental Health Week (something we recognise every year), the children take part in a number of activities designed to support positive mental health. This year, we decided to look at five ways to wellbeing (see below) and we even set some of the older children the challenge of giving up their phones for one week so they could find new ways to connect and be active.
Wellbeing display in the main corridor
A happy child is a happy learner!
Please click on the link below to watch the 'Big Assembly' - an assembly attended by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the subject of children's mental health:
Monthly Mindfulness Dec 2020 - Jul 2021
Children's Mental Health Week Assembly 3.2.20
Mental Wellbeing Assembly 29.4.19 ( and meet the new Wellbeing Council)
'5 ways to wellbeing' video
Children's Mental Health Assembly 4.2.19 (new)
You Tube video of the 'Big Assembly'
https://www.place2be.org.uk/
BBC Primary Mental Health films
Children's Mental and Emotional Wellbeing 0-25
Coping with stress - video for children
The Expert Parents' Guide to Childhood Anxiety
Tips for Parents/Carers:
Worries vs problems
Worry detective
4 ways to support a child with anxiety
Mental Health Y1 and Y2 Home Learning
Mental Health Y3 and Y4 Home Learning
Mental Health Y5 and Y6 Home Learning
Changes Activity for FS2 and KS1
Changes Activity for LKS2
Changes Activity for UKS2
Calming and breathing strategies:
Finger breathing
Self-Soothe boxes
3 ways to calm down...
Anxiety support:
Using music to flip your mood
Positive Affirmations
Safe Space Visualisation
Mindful Moments