At Hunton & Arrathorne Community Primary School, we believe that children thrive when they feel safe, supported and valued. Our school motto “Caring – Aspiring – Excelling” underpins everything we do and reflects our commitment to nurturing children’s emotional well-being alongside their academic development. We recognise that positive mental health is essential for learning, relationships and personal growth.
Our whole-school approach focuses on creating a positive, inclusive environment where children feel safe and secure. This enables them to share how they feel, express any concerns they may have and seek support when needed, ensuring children know how to do so appropriately.
Mental health and emotional well-being are embedded throughout our PSHE curriculum. Through this learning, children develop the knowledge, understanding and skills they need to manage their emotions, build positive relationships and stay safe.
Our PSHE curriculum helps pupils:
- Understand their emotions and how to manage them
- Develop empathy and respect for others
- Build positive friendships and relationships
- Understand how to keep themselves safe
- Develop resilience and problem-solving skills
- Understand how to stay safe online and maintain healthy habits with using technology
In addition to our PSHE curriculum, we employ a range of strategies and programmes to help further support mental health and well-being:
Our ‘No Outsiders’ programme promotes inclusion, respect and understanding. Through books, discussion and assemblies, children explore themes such as diversity, equality and belonging. This helps create a safe environment where everyone feels valued and accepted.
Outdoor learning through our Forest School sessions plays an important role in supporting well-being. These experiences help children to build confidence and independence, develop resilience and enjoy physical activity and time in nature.
As a smaller than average primary school, we pride ourselves on the close relationships we are able to form with each child and their families. We take a whole-school approach to pastoral care, ensuring every child feels known and supported. This support includes a caring and approachable staff team, opportunities for children to talk about their feelings in a safe environment, strong relationships & communication with families and targeted pastoral support where needed.
Our SENDCo, Mrs. Karen Cromey-Hawke, supports children with additional learning or emotional needs and works with families and external professionals where appropriate. We also support specific groups of pupils through initiatives such as Hunton Heroes, which provides pastoral support for children from military families.
Are you concerned about a child?
We encourage all families to speak to school staff if you have any concerns about the mental health and well-being of a child; Mr. Donaldson is the Designated Safeguarding Lead and Gavin Cope is the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead.
Additionally, below are some external resources and organisations which can offer further support:
Compass Phoenix
A free service supporting children and young people aged 9–19 (or up to 25 with SEND) who may be experiencing emotional well-being or mental health difficulties. The service provides one-to-one support, group work and advice for schools and families.
Link: https://www.compass-uk.org/services/compass-phoenix/
North Yorkshire Council – Children and Young People’s Mental Health
North Yorkshire Council provides information about services that support children experiencing emotional, behavioural or social difficulties and explains how families can access help and advice locally.
Link: https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/healthy-living/mental-health/children-and-young-peoples-mental-health
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)
CAMHS provide specialist NHS support for children and young people experiencing more complex mental health difficulties. Referrals are usually made through a GP or another professional working with the child or family.
Link: https://www.thegoto.org.uk/im-a-young-person/getting-support-need/camhs/
YoungMinds
YoungMinds is a national charity supporting children and young people’s mental health. They provide practical advice, resources and guidance for both young people and parents.
Link: https://www.youngminds.org.uk/
There are many simple ways families can support children’s well-being at home:
- Encourage open conversations about feelings
- Ensure children get enough sleep and exercise
- Spend time outdoors and away from screens
- Maintain routines and structure
- Encourage hobbies, creativity and friendships
- Seek support early if concerns arise