Positive Mental Health & Wellbeing

Having good mental health makes life easier. It helps us to calm and comfort ourselves when we're upset, to cope with the losses, changes, fears and uncertainties in life, to make and keep good relationships with other people and to learn.

At Summerlea School we are committed to supporting the emotional health and wellbeing of our pupils, staff and wider community. We know that everyone experiences life challenges that can make us vulnerable and at times, anyone may need additional emotional support. We take the view that positive mental health is everybody’s business and that we all have a role to play.  

 At our school we:

• help children to understand their emotions and feelings better                             
• help children feel comfortable sharing any concerns or worries
• help children socially to form and maintain relationships
• promote positive self esteem
• encourage children to be confident and ‘dare to be different’
• help children to develop emotional resilience and to manage setbacks 
• ensure that everyone in school feels safe, supported, valued and happy by providing a caring and supportive environment and creating an enthusiastic & engaged learning community.

Our curriculum

Our curriculum is created not only to challenge children academically but also with a strong emphasis on developing emotional literacy, building resilience and nurturing mental and physical health.  By giving children relevant learning experiences to help them navigate their world and thereby to develop positive relationships with themselves and others.

Children are taught how to keep themselves healthy, both physically and mentally, in turn raising awareness and reducing the stigma of mental health issues. In addition, we offer a curriculum which enables focus on diversity, differences and a celebration of each child’s unique qualities.  These aspects are covered through our;

• Life Skills (PHSE/RSHE) curriculum
• Assemblies that focus on life skills, world issues, mental health awareness
• Our whole school curriculum
• ELSA - teaching and practising of mindfulness techniques
• Learning Mentor support team
• Pastoral Team
• Pupil leadership roles such as school council, friendship squad and cyber squad

Children and Staff

At Summerlea School we are committed to offering every child and staff member a secure, stimulating, nurturing and happy environment where everyone is able to do their best.  This includes raising awareness for mental health issues including the identification of mental health needs and providing support for those most at risk or already showing signs of social, emotional or behavioural difficulties.

We have a fantastic staff team who are all totally dedicated to achieving the very best for all children.  They establish excellent relationships, whilst showing support and nurture to our children thereby developing their life and learning skills.

For children who require additional support, we have a very experienced and highly-trained pastoral team who provide a range of additional support that is individually tailored to the child, predominantly focusing on their emotional wellbeing.  This is to support children further with their self-esteem, improve their ability to cope in challenging situations and to prepare them for life.

If you have concerns about your child?

In the first instance, speak to your child’s class teacher.  We know that drop off and pick up times can be busy, so the easiest way is to email your class teacher to organise a time for a private conversation.

Our SENCo or Pastoral Lead can be contacted via the school office email, should you need further support.

Thought-Full

West Sussex service have a service called ‘Thought-full’ who support our school in regard to children’s mental health.  If you think that your child would benefit from this service, please email the school office at office@summerleaschool.co.uk and you will then be contacted by a member of our pastoral team who will be able to discuss your concerns and make a referral if appropriate.

If you have a concern about your child, further information can be found through the organisation website links below:

 However you are feeling. You are not alone. Things can get better.

West Sussex support services including CAMHS:

Children’s Mental Health Services in West Sussex

Advice and guidance for parents and carers to help support children experiencing poor mental health or wellbeing  

Happy Maps is a charity that was developed by GPs and CAMHS professionals with help from parents and young people to bring the best mental health resources into one place. You can search by age or concern

Online. On the phone. Anytime.