Health and Well-being

Mental health is a state of well-being in which every individual realises 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 her or his community.

World Health Organisation

At Merryhills, we aim to promote and nurture positive mental health for every member of our school community in line with our school vision and values. We pursue this aim using both universal, whole school approaches and specialised, targeted approaches aimed at vulnerable children. In addition to promoting positive mental health, we aim to recognise and respond to those showing signs of poor mental health.

As a school, we ensure children learn about:	As a school, we support children to:	As a school, we promote positive mental health through:
What they can do to maintain positive mental health What affects their mental health How they can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues Where they can go if they need help or support	Understand their emotions and feelings better Feel comfortable sharing any concerns or worries Socially to form and maintain relationships Develop emotional resilience and to manage setbacks Access to appropriate support that meets their individual needs.	Promoting our school values and encouraging a sense of belonging Promoting pupil voice and opportunities to participate in decision-making Providing opportunities to develop a sense of worth through taking responsibility for themselves and others Providing opportunities to reflect On the Google Classroom we have The Worry Button for pupils to share their worries with a safe adult. We have nominated school council members in each class to represent their peers and gain feedback from their class. Mental health and well-being assemblies to promote resilience and self-management. A positive behaviour system in place to promote positive social behaviour.

Celebrating Success

We like to celebrate our many successes together by:

Recognition Boards in every classroom
Displaying pupil’s work
Achievement award assembly each week: Writer of the Week, Values Award and Above and Beyond
Time to be Merry
Class assemblies
School newsletters
House points

Positive Experiences

Merryhills offers pupils many opportunities to do physical activities as well as opportunities to relax which both are ways to promote well-being and positive mental health.

Library sessions
Active learning
Themed days
Residential visits
Educational day visits
Before and after school clubs
Time to be Merry

What to do if I am worried about my child's mental health?

You can:

Go to your GP as a first port of call as they are a useful place to gain medical support and signposting of local services.
Talk to your child’s class teacher or teaching assistant about your child's needs or your concerns.
Talk to the school’s SENDCO/Designated Mental Health and Well-being lead (Ms Ioakim).
Contact Young Minds - the Parents Helpline is available to offer advice to anyone worried about a child or young person under 25.

Useful Resources to use at home:

Young Minds

Exploring Emotions

Mental Health and Well-being Book Lists