Supporting Mental Health

  • Mrs Hannah Brinksman-Wood

    Pastoral Lead

  • Mrs Jayne Narraway

    Headteacher and Senior Mental Health Lead

  • Miss Rebecca Sullivan

    Emotional Literacy Support Assistant and Pastoral Teaching Assistant

Alongside our safeguarding team, we have staff dedicated to supporting children’s wellbeing, resilience and emotional development:

Mrs Brinksman- Wood – Pastoral Lead

Mrs Brinksman-Wood works closely with pupils and families to provide early help, guidance and practical support. She helps children overcome barriers to learning and supports positive behaviour, attendance and family engagement.

Miss Sullivan – Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)

Miss Sullivan delivers targeted emotional support for children who may need help with things like managing feelings, building friendships, developing confidence or coping with change. Through ELSA sessions, she creates a calm, safe space where pupils can talk, learn strategies, and grow.

About the ELSA Programme:

ELSA support is delivered in structured six‑week blocks, usually through weekly sessions. During these sessions, children work on specific emotional or social needs in a calm, nurturing space. The aim is to equip each child with practical strategies they can continue using independently once the block has finished. Progress is reviewed and children can return for further support if needed. Please be aware that there is a waiting list for this provision.

Working With External Agencies

As part of our commitment to supporting children’s emotional wellbeing, mental health and safety, we work closely with a range of external professionals when this is needed.

Mental Health Support Team (MHST)

We have access to the MHST through a consultation process. They can:

  • offer guidance and recommendations to school staff
  • provide direct work with children and families where appropriate
  • help families access further support
  • signpost to specialist services when needed
  • provide a support plan to school and families following direct work

Other Agencies We May Work With

Depending on a child’s needs, we may also liaise with:

  • CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services)for more specialist mental health assessment and support
  • St Joseph’s Family Centre for counselling, therapeutic play or family support
  • Other local wellbeing, safeguarding and health servicesto ensure children and families receive the right help at the right time

Working with these agencies helps us provide a joined‑up approach so every child receives the most appropriate support.

Together, this team (supported by external agencies) ensures that our school remains a safe, nurturing environment where every child can thrive. If you ever have concerns about a child’s wellbeing or would like advice or support, please do not hesitate to get in touch with a member of the team.

National Sleep Helpline

One in four children in the UK are not getting enough sleep, this has an impact on their behaviour and ability to learn, as well as their physical health.

This free helpline is run by trained sleep advisors who can talk to young people directly, or parents (they can also talk to parents about their own sleep issues). 

The helpline is open 5 nights a week, Sunday to Thursday, 7-9pm and the number is 03303 530 541.

You can read more here: https://thesleepcharity.org.uk/national-sleep-helpline/