At Orchard Primary School we take the mental health and wellbeing of our pupils seriously. We all have mental health, just as we have physical health. In the same way that we can be more or less physically healthy from time to time, we can also be more or less mentally healthy from time to time too.

What is Mental Health?

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.

Mental health can manifest in many different ways. A child could present with sadness, anger, low appetite, be tired, emotional or just behave differently or unusually. Changing moods is part of growing up and is perfectly normal; however, if a child is not bouncing back from these changing moods, or you have concerns, please speak with someone.

How we approach Mental Health and Wellbeing in School

We recognise that good mental health is as important as good physical health. Through our curriculum, pupils are taught:

• How to recognise and manage emotions
• The importance of physical exercise
• How they can help others with their mental health in age-appropriate ways
• Who they should speak to in school if they are worried about their own or someone else’s mental wellbeing.

The Thrive Approach

In school we also use the Thrive Approach to support our pupils’ mental health and wellbeing. This is a therapeutic approach helping to support children with their emotional health, well-being and social development; more details can be found on the "About Us" page of our website.

What should I do if I am worried about my child?

If you are worried your child may be struggling with their emotions or experiencing mental health issues, please do not hesitate to talk to your child’s class teacher or Mrs Bitcon, Headteacher.

Further advice and support

Further advice and support can be found on the following pages of our website:

For pupils:

• Looking after your Mental Health and Wellbeing

For parents and families, useful website links can be found on the "Help and Support for Families and Parents" page:

• Mental Health and Wellbeing