Mental Health and Wellbeing
How do we support mental health and wellbeing in our students?
- Through focused form time called Wellbeing Wednesday, form tutors play a significant role in supporting student wellbeing and mental health development. We also have a comprehensive Personal Development Programme which provides age-appropriate resources and materials which aim to educate our students about the importance of mental health and broaden their knowledge and understanding to help empower them to effectively manage their mental health and make healthier and more positive choices.
- Heads of Year are responsible for the progress and wellbeing of students in their year group. Each year group has a non-teaching Assistant Head of Year who is available during the day to discuss concerns in person or via email.
- We have student mental health and wellbeing champions who support and guide their peers, actively promoting Mental Health and Wellbeing in school.
- The school follows a whole school model for supporting mental health and wellbeing called THRIVE. All students are offered support and advice at the level they require to maintain their positive mental health. The school works closely with external services and parents/carers to ensure that students are signposted to the most appropriate support for their difficulties. Some students will be allocated support by an on-site Counsellor and a Mental Health and Wellbeing Practitioner who provide 1:1 personalised and intensive support. (Spaces for this level of support are at the highest level on our THRIVE programme, and places are therefore limited)
- We have staff Mental Health First Aiders who have the practical skills to recognise triggers and signs when a student is having difficulties. They can reassure and refer to relevant support.
- We participate in both local and national events. North Chadderton School is passionate about raising awareness about mental health and reducing the stigma that often surrounds mental health. The school works closely with the Anna Freud Centre and participates in its annual BeeWell survey to help us understand the mental health needs of the young people within our school
- The school links particularly strongly with CAMHS and works with a commissioned Educational Psychologist. We are also part of the Oldham Educational Health and Wellbeing initiative, which promotes our local educational authority's mental health and wellbeing.
We advise that you request an emergency appointment with your GP if you are seriously concerned about your child's mental health or wellbeing.
In extreme circumstances, you can visit your local A & E department.
Understanding mental health can be a complex and daunting thing, not only for the child/young person but also for family members and those caring for them.
Below is a range of websites and resources to support parents. If you require any further support or have concerns regarding your child that the school can help with, don't hesitate to contact your child's achievement support team.
Useful Links
Below is a list of useful websites that can provide valuable information, advice, guidance and support to young people and their families about mental health as well as some free online courses to engage with:
www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk
https://bounceforward.com/training-courses/essentials-for-parents/