Mental Health and Well-being
In an ever changing world, positive physical and mental health is key to everyone’s well-being and quality of life. It allows us to respond effectively to the challenges that daily life bring. Children’s mental health is a crucial factor in their overall wellbeing and impacts on their learning and achievement.
Aims and Objectives
Intent
At Charlton Mackrell Primary School we aim to help develop the protective factors which build resilience to mental health problems and to be a school where:
Implementation
Charlton Mackrell is a place where children experience a nurturing and supportive environment that can develop self-esteem and give positive experiences to help overcome adversity and build resilience. We offer positive role models and relationships, so critical in promoting children’s wellbeing. This helps create a sense of belonging and community.
We will provide opportunities through our PSHE curriculum, work in circle time, ELSA sessions, visiting speakers and agencies, forest school and Lego club for all children learn the strategies to stay mentally healthy; how worries and stress can affect their mental health; develop understanding and empathy of those with mental health issues, and knowledge of where or who they can go to if they need help and support;
Impact
Our role in school is to make sure that our children are able to manage times of change and stress. The impact of the learning and support provided in school will ensure that children know:
Forest School sessions take place at Hallr Wood, which is a short walk from the school, and are run by a qualified leader and other school staff.
Research shows that Forest School is beneficial to students in many ways. The opportunity to be immersed in the natural world can bring a sense of calm and helps to focus the mind, and an awareness of the importance of the world at large.
The environment is ever changing which can be inspiring but also, mentally and physically challenging. The children learn to accept that things don't always go to plan, and they need to rethink their strategies to succeed. The staff work closely with the children to gain a greater understanding of their individual interests and learning styles. Showing a respect for this uniqueness is acknowledged by the children, and builds a trust that helps us to plan experiences to extend on their desires to learn and thrive. Often children find that they can make the impossible happen if they work together to overcome challenges. Working with their peers develops an awareness of the needs of others and through combined thinking new skills are learnt. When goals are met children take great delight in their achievements, also acknowledging and praising others for their efforts.
Forest School can embed important life skills, such as critical thinking, communication, and emotional intelligence, along with empathy and respect for others. Having these in ones armour will boost self-confidence and will also give resilience when facing life's challenges.