Mental Health and Wellbeing

 

At Puddletown First School, we know the importance of mental health and wellbeing for both staff and pupils. We also understand that we need to work with children on strategies for mental wellbeing before there is an issue. For a child to learn well, they need to be supported in their wellbeing.

Trauma Informed Schools

Our school is a trauma informed school and members of staff have been trained in Trauma Informed Schools practices. We focus on positive attachments between children and staff and for children to have an emotionally available adult there for them. We also work individually with children who need support to deal with the trauma they have experienced in their lives, whether this is abuse, bereavement or parental separation etc... We treat every child as an individual, but we know that, for a child, their behaviour is often a sign of their emotional turmoil and, to improve and support their behaviour, we need to support their emotional wellbeing. 

In 2026 we introduced a programme to all year groups at school called myHappymind to further support mental health and well being. myHappymind is all based around helping children to understand how their brain works and to support them in developing positive skills and habits to be their very best selves!

myHappymind is an NHS-backed curriculum in primary schools, secondary schools, and nurseries and is focused on building resilience, self-esteem, and happiness in children. An award-winning programme that has received national recognition for its exceptional work in schools, nurseries, families, and organisations across the UK. Backed by NHS using preventative strategies firmly rooted in science, research, and the fields of neuroscience and positive psychology.

myHappymind is delivered in schools by class teachers through a series of interactive lessons and then the children apply these learnings throughout the day.

We also support children through the use of strong relational practice, pastoral support,  zones of regulation, PSHE lessons and mindfulness practices to support children in their mental health and wellbeing. As a faith-based school, we also believe that our Christian practices help support well-being. 

 

Mental Health Lead: Mrs A.Seal

Useful Resources

 Resources and links to support you with mental wellbeing at home.

https://www.place2be.org.uk/our-services/parents-and-carers/supporting-your-child-s-mental-health/

https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/supporting-others/childrens-mental-health/

https://www.annafreud.org/resources/family-wellbeing/resources-for-families/