Positive Mental Health and Wellbeing

What is Positive Mental Health and Wellbeing?

The World Health Organisation 2010 defines it as the following:

‘a state of mind in which an individual is able to realise his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.’

Why is it important?

It is important because this is what we truly want for our children.

Research has proven that without emotional and physical wellbeing, students will not be able to reach their full potential. There are government expectations that schools should support students and staff to be resilient and mentally healthy. They should provide a safe environment that fosters trust and belonging and create a culture that supports mental health

It is estimated that 1 in 4 children and young people will be affected by a mental health problem each year with 1 in 10 children in UK aged between 5 years and 16 years have a diagnosable mental health condition. In an average classroom, three young people will be suffering from a diagnosable mental health issue

Public Health England in March 2015 comment on the influence that a child’s emotional health & wellbeing has on their cognitive development & learning, as well as their physical and social health and their mental wellbeing in adulthood.

A whole school positive mental health and wellbeing approach that moves beyond learning & teaching to cover all aspects of school life has been found to be effective in bringing about sustained health benefits.

How can parents / carers support your child’s wellbeing at home?

As with every aspect of school life, effective support for students’ positive mental health and wellbeing depends on the strength of input from our families and the wider community.

Simply by being there for them and spending time talking with them you will be helping them develop the skills they need to overcome challenges in later life.

By working together, we can support our children more effectively.

Encouraging your child to engage with the school’s wellbeing activities and engaging in the enrichment activities.

Encouraging your child to seek support from:

their tutor or class teacher
the Year Team
the School Counsellor
the Safeguarding Team.

For any concerns about a child’s wellbeing, please contact their Year Team using the dedicated email addresses below.

For any general concerns please contact our designated wellbeing lead, Nicky Baker and Sharon Bryant on the dedicated email address: [email protected]

Encourage your child to engage and access advice and support outside of the Academy.