At St Jude’s Church of England Primary Academy, we recognise the link between emotional wellbeing, progress and attainment and we strive to create a culture in which pupils, parents and staff talk openly about emotional wellbeing and mental health. Our staff are committed to identifying and responding appropriately to signs of emotional or mental distress in pupils and each other. we work together with the wider school community to implement positive ways of talking about and removing the stigma around mental health

At St. Jude’s we promote and deliver an inclusive curriculum that provides children with opportunities to explore and develop their mental health and wellbeing. As a school, we follow the Jigsaw scheme of work through weekly lessons. Each year, the children will complete the following topics:

• Being Me in My World- exploring the rights of a child
• Celebrating Differences- encouraging children to explore how we are different and unique
• Dreams and Goals- exploring hopes and dreams for the future in a creative way
• Healthy Me- exploring the impact of living a healthy lifestyle
• Relationships- learning about friendships, conflict resolution and relationships
• Changing Me- preparing children for future transition to the next year group, or transition to secondary school.

Alongside the Jigsaw scheme, children also take part in focus weeks to help promote positive mental health. We provide children with the opportunity to develop their own strategies to support their mental health. We help pupils to consider how they can help to make the school a caring and inclusive environment for all.

In school, all adults are trained to recognise issues around mental health and wellbeing and they have a responsibility to address these so that any issues identified are addressed appropriately. Our designated Mental Health First Aiders are Mr Webb, Mr Whelan and Miss Harrison. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the school office or speak to your child’s teacher in the first instance. Miss Miller is also available to contact regarding pastoral support and we have Mr Perrin (our school pastor) in school every Thursday if pupils, parents or staff have the need to speak with someone. 

Below you will find guidance for families and carers. Please click the images to find the documentation. 

Below are a series of websites that offer guidance and support in regards to mental health and wellbeing. There are also links to helplines for children and families.