1 - Introduction/basic information

This document describes the school’s approach to promoting positive social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) and well-being. It is intended as guidance for ALL staff. The policy should be read in conjunction with the school SEND/Medical/Behaviour and Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) policy.

1. The aims of this policy are:

To promote the positive mental health of all staff and pupils
To increase understanding and awareness of common mental health problems
To highlight to staff the warning signs that are often linked to a deterioration in a pupil’s mental health
To provide support and training for staff working with pupils with mental health issues
To provide support for staff suffering with mental health issues
To give guidance for staff on the pathway for identifying pupils with SEMH needs.

1.2 Background

“Mental Health is a state of well-being in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and contributes to his or her community” (World Health Organisation)

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) states that: -

“Head teachers, governors and teachers should demonstrate a commitment to the social and emotional well-being of young people. They should provide leadership in this area by ensuring social and emotional well-being features within improvement plans, policies, systems and activities. These should all be monitored and evaluated.”

Taking the above statement into consideration, it is our duty to ensure that at Clare Mount Specialist Sports College we show this commitment to developing the mental health and emotional well-being of all pupils and staff. This document outlines how we embed these aims at Clare Mount Specialist Sports College.