Wellbeing
Mrs Virden has the privilege of being the Lead for Mental Health and Wellbeing. Alongside colleagues, she ensures that all children are kept safe in school and know that there is always someone available to listen to them when they need support. All pupils understand that school staff will listen to their concerns and help them find solutions to any worries they may have.
We have a group of Wellbeing Warriors who work across both playgrounds to ensure that playtimes and lunchtimes are positive, relaxed, and enjoyable for everyone. The Wellbeing Warriors look out for children who may appear unhappy and offer friendship and support, particularly to those who are sitting on the Friendship Bench. To further support pupils at lunchtime, our Year 6 pupils organise activities on both the Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 playgrounds. These activities include dancing, colouring, and a range of sports.
Every fortnight, Gus the dog visits our school with his owner, Nina. Children have the opportunity to read to Gus in small groups, and he also visits classrooms to support learning in other lessons. We love seeing Gus and feel very lucky that he enjoys coming into our school so much.
Over the last year, we have encouraged pupils to take part in our residential experiences. As part of this, our Year 4 pupils take part in a school sleepover and enjoy a variety of activities both indoors and outdoors. The evening includes a BBQ, time in our outdoor learning area building a campfire, singing, making s’mores, and enjoying hot chocolate before sleeping in the classrooms. After breakfast on Saturday morning, pupils spend more time outdoors before heading home. This experience has helped build pupils’ confidence in preparation for our off sight Year 5 residential and Year 6 residential.
We also love hosting after-school discos and usually hold at least two each year. The Halloween disco is always very popular, and our Year 6 pupils help to run the Spring disco.
We are extremely proud of the work that takes place in our school to support the wellbeing of all pupils and staff.
Please see this useful document ‘Digital Young Persons guide to mental health support?’
You can find additional help and support through the following websites:
https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/
Compass Buzz is a free project that aims to improve the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people aged 5-18 (25 with SEND) in schools across North Yorkshire. Please see the ‘Useful Links’ section below for further resources from Compass Buzz to support children, parents and carers.