Wellbeing
Wellbeing is important at any time, and none more so now that we are all faced with unusual and unsettling times due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and the significant impact that it is having on all our lives.
Looking after your wellbeing by continuing to have a good combination of activity and relaxing down-time, and being able to manage anxiety and stress as best you can, is especially important right now. There are some great resources that may help; our selection of some good ones is posted below.
Stress about school-work and other school issues
The first thing to say is please do not feel overwhelmed, worried or upset by school-work or things that are happening at school without bringing this to the attention of a member of staff. We are here to help and support all our students and our pastoral team have an amazing approach that will focus working through any issues with you. You can speak to your class teacher or tutor, a Head of House or Head of Year, or our Safeguarding & Welfare Officer. Don't keep it to yourself - problems are always better when they are shared.
Stress about home-life
If home worries are getting you down, please let us know as we are always happy to listen and support you. Speak to a member of staff you feel comfortable with or pop in and see our Safeguarding & Welfare Officer - she has an open door policy which means you can knock anytime you see her in her office.
Information and advice
Parents, we'd suggest that you look at the Coronavirus resources before or with children, especially if you are anxious about information overload. Some of these resources may also help parents support younger age children.
Resources for students and parents
Chatter Pack: Supporting a change to routines
Coronavirus and your wellbeing: Information from better health charity Mind
Young Minds: Coronavirus advice and mental health support
Advice about Coronavirus: Easy Read Online - Explaining Coronavirus for Kids
Newsround Coronavirus: Chris and Xand have what you need to know
Brainpop: simple video explaining Coronavirus for children
ELSA Support: self-isolation activities
Mindheart Simple Story: explaining Coronavirus to young children or children with SEND
Signed video: Helping those with communication difficulties understand the current situation
Drama Therapist: Helping young people manage their emotions during this time
WHO video - World Health Organisation video for secondary school pupils and adults
Action for Happiness: responding to Coronavirus
Coping with stress: World Health Organisation poster
Resources particularly for parents
In addition, parents may find the following resources helpful:
DfE guidance on supporting secondary school age children continue their education and manage their wellbeing during Coronavirus
How to talk about Coronavirus: advice on talking to anxious children and teens about Coronavirus
WHO guidance to support mental health during this time: Mental health considerations during the Covid-19 outbreak, from the World Health Organisation
Unicef: How to talk to your child about Coronavirus
Children's Commissioner: Supporting children during the Coronavirus outbreak
Phoenix Education: Supporting parents support children
Other languages: Coronavirus advice from doctors in 34 different languages
Helping children cope with stress: World Health Organisation poster
Cruse: Dealing with Coronavirus bereavement