Supporting Mental Health & Wellbeing
Mental health is...
"... a state of wellbeing in which every individual recognises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her own community.“
World Health Organisation, August 2014
At Eton Porny First School we recognise that good mental health is just as important as good physical health. When children are stressed or fearful they are least able to learn and think clearly. We also understand that the family environment is key in helping to develop a child’s mental health and resilience.
At Eton Porny we encourage children to talk openly about mental health through all aspects of the curriculum and especially through assemblies, PSHE (Jigsaw) lessons, stories and workshops. Children understand that there may be times when we don’t feel good about things and having someone to talk to can make all the difference.
We have a variety of ways to suport children's mental health:
ELSA: our Emotional Literacy Support Assistant is Mrs Armstrong. She works with individual children and small groups to support and help them develop strategies in areas such as self-confidence, resilience, anxiety and friendships.
Home School Link Worker: our HSLW is Mrs Smith. She works preventatively with children, families and the school to provide early intervention, signposting, support and guidance, especially in times of change or stress.
Jigsaw Rest: all teachers will fill out a wellbeing survey about the children in their class. This is monitored termly and gives an indication of any child who may need a support intervention.
Boxall Profile: this is an assessment tool which can help us identify children who may be struggling with behaviour at school. The assessment identifies areas of concern and gives us strategies to work on.
Wellbeing Champions: in Year 4 we have a small group of children who are trained to be Wellbeing Champions. These children are a friendly ear to children who may want to discuss feelings or just need a friend.
Senior Mental Health Lead: Mrs Bergin is the school SMHL. If you have any concerns about mental health or wellbeing, she will be happy to speak to you and signpost you to any relevant support. She can also refer to the RBWM or Slough Early Help Team for any support needed.
Triple P Parenting Course: our Home School Link Worker, Mrs Smith, is able to run a Triple P parenting programme for the parents at Eton Porny. ‘Triple P’ stands for ‘Positive Parenting Program’. The course provides strategies and a tool kit of ideas on how to raise happy, confident children. It supports parents to manage misbehaviour, set rules and routines, encourage behaviour you like, take care of yourself as a parent and feel confident you’re doing the right thing.
Useful Links and Resources
There are a number of really helpful websites which you can access, which cover a range of issues:
This website offers mental health advice for young people and parents. Call the Parents Helpline: 0808 802 5544 (Monday to Friday 9.30am – 4pm, free for mobiles and landlines)
This is a charity which offers advice and support, especially around the ‘5 ways to wellbeing.’
The Samaritans offers confidential support for people with feelings of distress. Call free 116 123.
Lots of useful information and encourages discussions around mental health and offers support to young people and parents/carers.
Practical tips to support children’s wellbeing and behaviour, including information on sleep, bedwetting and body image.
If you have any questions or would like to access any of the support listed, please do not hesitate to contact us via:
Telephone: 01753 861 995
Email: office@etonporny.com