Supporting Mental Health and Wellbeing at Rowlatts Mead
At Rowlatts Mead, we are committed to nurturing the whole child – academically, socially, and emotionally. Children’s mental health and wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do. We believe that every pupil deserves a safe, supportive, and proactive environment where they can develop resilience, explore their emotions, and feel empowered to talk about how they are feeling.
How We Prioritise Mental Health
Our PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) curriculum plays a central role in promoting positive mental health. Through carefully designed lessons, we actively teach and discuss mental health topics in ways that are relevant and accessible to our pupils. This helps children:
- Identify and understand their emotions
- Build emotional literacy and self-awareness
- Learn strategies to cope with pressure and stress
- Develop empathy and support for their peers
In addition to our planned PSHE teaching, we also offer responsive PSHE lessons and targeted support following any specific incidents or concerns that arise. These sessions help children reflect, learn and use practical tools to manage everyday challenges. Where appropriate, we provide tailored resources and toolkits to support individual needs and help pupils develop coping strategies that work for them.
Support for Parents and Families
We recognise that children’s mental health is closely linked to the wellbeing of their families. We aim to work in partnership with parents and carers by:
- Signposting helpful strategies and supportive services
- Encouraging open conversations about emotions at home
- Offering guidance on how to support children through common worries and challenges
Staff Wellbeing and Support
We know that a happy, healthy staff community is essential for strong pupil wellbeing. Our Senior Leadership Team (SLT) is always available to offer support and guidance to staff members. We actively promote a culture where wellbeing is valued, and staff feel comfortable seeking help when needed.
Child-Friendly Mental Health Support and Resources (UK)
We have carefully selected a range of trusted, child-friendly resources that support emotional wellbeing and mental health. These are available to explore at home and are suitable for children, young people and families.
For Children and Young People
🌟 YoungMinds – Support, tips and guides for children and young people on anxiety, feelings and mental health.
🔗 https://youngminds.org.uk
💬 Kooth – Free, safe online counselling and emotional wellbeing support for children and young people aged 11–25.
🔗 https://kooth.com
🙂 Childline – Confidential support for young people up to 19, with phone and online chat options.
🔗 https://childline.org.uk / Tel: 0800 1111
🧠 MindEd for Families – UK-wide mental health guides and advice for parents and carers with child-centred content.
🔗 https://mindedforfamilies.org.uk
🎧 BBC Own It – Digital wellbeing support for children, including advice on managing feelings and life online.
🔗 https://www.bbc.com/ownit
For Parents and Carers
👪 Parents Helpline (YoungMinds) – Support for parents and carers worried about a child’s mental health.
🔗 https://youngminds.org.uk/find-help/for-parents
🧠 Anna Freud Centre – Parent Support – Practical guides and strategies to support children with anxiety and emotional challenges.
🔗 https://www.annafreud.org/parents-and-carers
📘 NHS Mental Health Support – NHS information and links to local support services for children and families.
🔗 https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health
Useful Strategies to Support Mental Health
Here are some simple, effective strategies you can practise at home and in school:
✔ Breathing activities and mindfulness – e.g. balloon breaths, mindful listening
✔ Emotion check-ins – naming feelings together each day
✔ Routine and structure – predictable timetables help reduce stress
✔ Movement and outdoor time – exercise supports mood and focus
✔ Open communication – listening without judgment, and validating feelings
