Wellbeing

Pupil Wellbeing

Our wellbeing programme for pupils is personal and structured, ensuring they feel safe, listened to, and supported throughout their school journey.

• A clear pastoral framework, with trusted adults who know each pupil well (click here to view our pastoral page)
• Small class sizes, enabling individual attention
• Dedicated safeguarding, wellbeing, and medical leads
• Growth (PSHCEE) lessons, supporting emotional and social development
• Close partnership with parents, underpinned by open communication
• Access to enhanced pastoral support and external professional guidance when required

Through our teaching and wellbeing provision, pupils learn to:

• Understand and manage their emotions
• Develop confidence and self-esteem
• Navigate friendships and social situations
• Cope positively with change, worry, or disappointment
• Build resilience, perseverance, and self-belief

At St Mary’s wellbeing is not a separate initiative, it is woven into the fabric of school life. Through strong relationships, clear structures, and a culture of kindness and respect, we ensure every pupil feels safe, supported and confident to thrive.

Working in Partnership with Families

We believe pupils thrive best when home and school work closely together. Parents are always encouraged to contact their child’s class teacher, a member of the pastoral or wellbeing team, or a member of the Senior Leadership Team if concerns arise. All matters are treated with care, confidentiality, and respect.

Key contacts:

• Wellbeing and Medical Lead: Riley Bormann, MPAS BSc – Riley.Bormann@stmh.co.uk
• Deputy Head (Pastoral) & Designated Safeguarding Lead: Philippa d’Aquino – Philippa.d’Aquino@stmh.co.uk

Wellbeing Resources & Support

We are proud to subscribe to The Wellbeing Hub (click here), giving all families free access to expert-led videos, podcasts, and guidance to support children’s wellbeing at home.

We also work with and signpost families to trusted national organisations:

For Parents & Families

• YoungMinds – Leading mental health charity offering expert advice, parent helpline, and practical resources to support children’s emotional wellbeing
• Anna Freud National Centre for Children & Families – Research-based mental health support and resources for families navigating challenges
• Mental Health Foundation – Practical guidance on maintaining good mental health for the whole family
• Relate – Relationship support for families, including help navigating family changes and communication

For Children & Young People

• Childline – Free, confidential counselling service available 24/7 for children and young people (call 0800 1111)
• Kooth – Free, anonymous online counselling and emotional wellbeing support for ages 10-25
• Lumi Nova: Tales of Courage – Interactive app helping children aged 7–12 manage anxiety through storytelling and games

School-Based Resources

• Place2Be – Children’s mental health charity providing early intervention support in schools
• Mentally Healthy Schools – Evidence-based resources and guidance for supporting children’s mental health
• The Waiting Room – Supporting young people’s mental health and wellbeing

Specialist Support

• ADDISS – National information and support service for ADHD and attention difficulties
• UK Safer Internet Centre – Expert guidance on keeping children safe online, including advice on cyberbullying and online wellbeing

Additional Recommended Resources:

• NSPCC – Support for parents on safeguarding, mental health, and child development
• Mind – Mental health support with specific resources for young people
• The Mix – Support service for under-25s covering mental health, relationships, and life challenges
• Family Lives – Parenting support helpline and resources for all aspects of family life