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    • Mental Health and Wellbeing

    Why mental health matters at CSS

    At CSS we realise the importance of good mental health and how this can impact on the learning environment. Mental health is part of our safeguarding responsibilities. Our staff are well placed to identify pupils whose behaviour suggests they might have a mental health challenge or be at risk of developing one. Our staff are alert to the potential need for early help for any child having mental health needs, and aware that mental health difficulties can, in some cases, be an indicator that a child has suffered or is at risk of suffering abuse, neglect or exploitation. 

    Mental health is reinforced throughout the PSHE curriculum and we have trained staff such as Engagement Mentors, a Designated Safeguarding Team and qualified Counsellors for support.

    What is mental health?

    Our mental health is always present, just as everyone has physical health. It relates to how we think, feel, and function in our daily lives and at CSS we recognise how important it is to take care of it.

    Mental health includes:

    • How we feel about ourselves and others
    • Our thoughts and emotions
    • Our ability to form and maintain relationships
    • Our capacity to learn, grow, and develop emotionally

    Mental health difficulties are common and can affect anyone, much like physical illness. They are often a normal response to stressful, challenging, or traumatic life events and can affect children or young people as well as adults.

    When might mental health difficulties arise?

    Difficulties may arise during experiences such as:

    • Exam pressure or academic stress
    • Relationship or friendship difficulties
    • Family breakdown or divorce
    • Bereavement
    • Bullying or abuse

    During these difficult times, it is normal to experience emotions such as stress, sadness, anger, fear, or feeling overwhelmed. These feelings often ease with time, but in some cases they can persist, impact daily life, or develop into a more serious mental health condition. Then, additional professional help is often required.

    How do we support mental health and wellbeing at CSS?

    We take a whole-school approach to mental health and wellbeing by:

    • Embedding mental health education throughout our PSHE curriculum
    • Training our staff including Engagement Mentors, our Designated Safeguarding Team and qualified Counsellors
    • Creating a calm, safe and supportive environment where all pupils want to be
    • Identifying pupils who need support through clear systems and processes
    • Working in partnership with pupils, families and external agencies to provide the right support
    • Monitoring wellbeing regularly to identify any emerging needs

    What support is available for pupils?

    We provide:

    • Pastoral support from named members of staff such as Engagement Mentors
    • Counselling services from qualified counsellors
    • Safeguarding support from our Designated Safeguarding Team led by Emily Valentine
    • Tailored interventions based on individual needs
    • Flexible arrangements where needed to help pupils feel safe and supported
    What should students do if they need help?

    If you're feeling worried, overwhelmed, or struggling with your mental health, it's important to talk to someone. You can:

    • Speak to a trusted adult at school (teacher, Engagement Mentor, support staff)
    • Contact our Designated Safeguarding Lead Emily Valentine at emily.valentine@css-essex.co.uk
    • Use external support services listed below

    Remember: asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You don't have to face difficult feelings alone.

    Where can students find more support?

    Helpful organisations for students:

    How can families support their child's mental health?

    We recognise that parents and carers play a vital role in supporting their child's mental health and wellbeing. We work in partnership with families by:

    • Communicating openly about mental health and wellbeing
    • Providing information and resources to support families at home
    • Working together to identify and address any concerns
    • Being responsive to parents' and carers' questions and concerns
    What should families do if they're worried?

    If you're concerned about your child's mental health or wellbeing:

    • Talk to your child and listen to their concerns
    • Contact the school – speak to your child's form tutor, Engagement Mentor, or contact Emily Valentine, our Designated Safeguarding Lead, at emily.valentine@css-essex.co.uk
    • Seek professional support if needed through your GP or the organisations listed below
    • Keep communication open between home and school
    Where can families find more support?

    Helpful organisations for families:

    What if mental health is affecting attendance?

    We understand that sometimes mental health challenges can make it difficult for pupils to attend school. We work alongside families to support pupils who experience emotions that make them nervous about attending school. However, we recognise that pupils with long-term mental health challenges can have complex barriers to attendance and may need additional support. If your child can't attend due to illness related to their mental health, please notify us and we will record this information.

    We will work with you and your child to:

    • Understand their individual needs
    • Provide specific pastoral support
    • Consider flexible arrangements where appropriate
    • Ensure joined-up care and support

    Please contact the school as soon as possible if your child is struggling to attend due to mental health concerns.

    For more information about mental health and wellbeing support at CSS, please contact Emily Valentine, Designated Safeguarding Lead, at emily.valentine@css-essex.co.uk

    This information should be read alongside our safeguarding and child protection policy, behaviour policy, and PSHE curriculum, which together create a comprehensive framework for supporting the mental health and wellbeing of all members of our school community.

     

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