Mental Health and Wellbeing
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School Rationale
At Liscard Primary School, the rationale behind the Mental Health and Wellbeing approach for children and schools staff is clear. The rationale reflects the school context and the specific needs of the children. The Mental Health and Wellbeing approach reflects the school’s aims and values and the school vision.
We ensure that the provision maps are updated and training is available for staff on specific areas of Mental Health and Wellbeing. The school will continue to celebrate World Mental Health day and Mental Health Awareness Week and complete activities around this time. We will provide further training on attachment, trauma and behaviour for all staff. There will also be training for parents available on attachment, trauma and behaviour (including self-harm) All relevant staff, governors and parents are be aware of the rationale and aims through the reviewed policy.
Moral Purpose
At Liscard Primary School we recognise that mental health is everyone’s responsibility. We recognise that mental health is just as important as physical health. We believe it is crucial to reduce the stigma attached to mental health problems to ensure the whole school community can reach their potential. The mental well-being of our school community is a key part of our vision and values and we strive to promote positive well-being for all. We understand that good mental health can be eroded by risk factors, and, supported by protective factors. As a school, we endeavour to support our children to achieve good mental health, regardless of their experiences, to be the most successful learners and well-rounded individuals that they can be. We aim to rise above the ordinary by developing learners who can transform lives and communities.
We believe that shared school values mean that the whole school community works together on a shared intent. They are as follows:
- Value and respect others
- Radiate positivity
- Promote opportunities for all
- Demonstrate loyalty, trust and confidentiality
- Collaborate and inspire
- Foster team spirit
- Maintain a sense of humour
- Show empathy and understanding
- Listen, be open and honest
- Guide and support
- Resolve disputes sensitively
- Be motivational and encouraging to be the best
Whole School Approach
At Liscard Primary School, we are committed to develop a whole school approach to supporting children’s mental health and wellbeing. The Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and Middle Leaders have completed the Mental Health First Aid training. All teaching staff have received training from the ADHD Foundation and Chester University on mental health and trauma and attachment in children. Mental health resources are available and can be accessed from the staff drive for when working with whole class and groups of children. We intend to continue to complete tasks and activities during World Mental Health Day and Mental Health Awareness Week to heighten the awareness amongst all children. We will continue to work closely with our family support workers. They provide resources and significant support to all families with need. They work with groups of children and 1:1 sessions to support children’s needs. Staff are aware of how to refer families to them and can ask for resources to support children. We have two teaching assistants fully qualified in ELSA and they support children across school.
The Mental Health Support Team (MHST) attend school weekly to complete small group and 1:1 sessions with children and they continue to support families. The Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) Advice, line number, My Mind/MHST information are shared with staff and parents via our social media platforms. The lunchtime nurture club is available for children who will benefit from quieter lunchtimes. Daily mindfulness lessons continue across school.
We intend to complete the Wellbeing Award for Schools this academic year.
Staff Wellbeing
At Liscard Primary School we take the mental health and well-being of staff seriously. Regular staff meetings take place and staff share their thoughts confidentially. We will continue do what we can to ensure that staff wellbeing is a school priority particularly as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.