Promoting Positive Mental Health and Wellbeing at Alvechurch Middle School
At Alvechurch C of E Middle School, we are dedicated to fostering a culture that prioritises positive mental health and emotional wellbeing for our entire school community, including pupils, staff, parents, and carers. We recognise that mental health is as fundamental to overall wellbeing as physical health and plays a crucial role in pupils’ academic success, personal development, and social interactions.
Children encounter a range of experiences throughout their educational journey, and while many navigate these with ease, others may face significant challenges or life events that impact their emotional wellbeing. We acknowledge that all individuals may experience difficulties at times, and we are committed to providing the necessary support to ensure that every child is equipped to manage change, stress, and adversity effectively.
At AMS, we aim to cultivate an environment where mental health is understood, valued, and actively promoted. Our approach includes educating pupils on strategies for maintaining positive mental health, raising awareness of factors that influence emotional wellbeing, and reducing the stigma associated with mental health challenges. Additionally, we ensure that pupils are aware of the support systems available to them should they require assistance.
The Mental Health and Wellbeing of all our pupils, staff and the community as a whole is at the heart of everything we do at Alvechurch. Our objective is to develop protective factors that build resilience and support positive mental health within our school community. We strive to create a learning environment where:
Every child is valued and respected.
Pupils experience a strong sense of belonging and feel safe within the school.
Children feel confident in discussing their concerns with trusted adults without fear of stigma.
The promotion of mental health is embedded within the school culture.
Bullying in any form is actively challenged and not tolerated.
Every pupil is able to access help through ‘I wish my teacher knew’ jar or iamworried@alvechurch.worcs.sch.uk email.
Dedicated Wellbeing pod.
Parental workshops though the Grow Together program.
Pupils can spend time with our school dog Milo.
Wellbeing ambassadors throughout the school promote Wellbeing through form time activities and assemblies.
Through this commitment, we seek to empower our pupils with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate life’s challenges while fostering a supportive and inclusive school environment.
Encourage open, none judgemental conversations about how we feel/ things that are going on.
Allow yourself time to process what they tell you or talk to you about.
Reach out for support, contact the team at school, the GP or someone you feel comfortable talking to.
Try different strategies, just because one doesn’t work, it doesn’t mean others won’t. – Mindfulness music, listening to stories/ music/ podcasts/ journalling/ craft/ exercise are all great strategies to help reset