Heather Fuller, Head Teacher of The High School of Glasgow Junior School explains the range of new approaches to improve the health and wellbeing of their pupils.
Why is student well-being and mental health important in independent junior schools?
There is a wealth of evidence that points to a significant need for early mental health support for children and young people, this not only benefits them at the present time, but tackling problems early on stops them developing further in later life. Growing evidence indicates that promoting positive mental health also improves a range of positive school outcomes, including attitudes to learning, better attendance and lower behavioural issues.
What specific resources and support systems do junior independent schools provide for student mental health?
Independent schools can be very different in their systems, however at The High School of Glasgow Junior School a partnership was formed with Purple House Clinic to provide an enhancement to the wellbeing provision by offering professional mental health support to pupils and additional support for staff working with pupils who we know would benefit from mental health support. In addition to the pastoral care provided on a daily basis by support staff, class teachers and senior leaders, many schools also have staff trained in Mental Health First Aid, Seasons for Growth or similar programmes.
How are these mental health initiatives integrated into the junior school culture?
In schools where there are daily assemblies, there can be a focus on many different aspects of wellbeing. Sometimes this is through focussed weeks, e.g. Children’s Mental Health Week or sometimes it can be a one-off assembly covering a theme, e.g. resilience or worry. The Health and Wellbeing core curriculum will cover all aspects of health; mental, emotional, social and physical.
In extra-curricular activities, children may have opportunities to further enhance their health and wellbeing through physical activity, wellness activity such as yoga or mindfulness, or by just enjoying and feeling good about alternative skills they are learning in a different club. Many schools will have a Health and Wellbeing Pupil Committee, which affords pupils to have a voice in how they would like to see health and wellbeing enhanced within their setting, for example by organising a ‘mini-marathon’ or by contributing to playground activity ideas. And most schools will also provide workshops or presentations for parents, e.g. The High School of Glasgow has run sessions for parents focussed on communicating with their children. Some schools may offer a ‘Relax Zone’ or chillout area that allows pupils to take some time to themselves if they are feeling overwhelmed. This might also be seen as a quiet place in which to talk to a trusted adult.
How do junior independent schools address the unique mental health challenges faced by students?
For pupils with specific support needs, whether physical, emotional or learning, schools will create support plans. This could involve enhanced support from in-house staff, an agreed strategies plan, a ‘go-to’ trusted adult, etc. Independent schools will welcome advice and support from external agencies such as CAMHS, as it is in the best interests of the pupil.
What is the role of parents in supporting student well-being in junior independent schools?
Parental involvement and support is crucial. Schools will want to collaborate with parents at every stage, whether that be with general support for activities, attendance at workshops or presentations or if a child requires specialist one-to-one support.
More information about the health and wellbeing services provided at The High School of Glasgow Junior School can be found here.