Support for Children's Health & Wellbeing
At St Michael Catholic Primary and Nursery School, we are committed to supporting the whole child. Guided by our Catholic values, we strive to ensure that every child feels safe, valued, respected and supported throughout their time with us.
We believe children thrive when their emotional, physical and mental wellbeing is nurtured alongside their learning. Through our caring and inclusive community, we help pupils to develop confidence, resilience, independence and positive relationships, enabling them to reach their full potential.
This page provides information, guidance and links to organisations and services that can support children, young people and families both in school and at home.
For more information about how we support pupils' personal development, mental health and emotional wellbeing through our curriculum, please visit our PSHE and RSE curriculum pages.
Child Health Services in Medway
We work closely with local services to support the health and wellbeing of our pupils and their families.
Medway Child Health Services
Medway Community Healthcare provides a range of health services for children and young people from birth to 18 years of age. These services promote healthy development and wellbeing through support from health visitors, school nurses and specialist teams.
Website: https://www.medwaycommunityhealthcare.nhs.uk/services/child-health-service/
If you have concerns about your child's health or wellbeing, please speak to your child's teacher or contact the school office.
Emotional Wellbeing Support
North Kent Therapeutic Alliance
The North Kent Therapeutic Alliance offers support for children and young people experiencing emotional or mental health difficulties. Services include early intervention, therapeutic support, family guidance and wellbeing programmes.
Website: https://medwaytherapeuticalliance.co.uk/
If you feel your child may benefit from additional support, please contact the school so that we can discuss the most appropriate next steps.
Mental Health and Wellbeing Resources
The following organisations provide advice, support and information for parents, carers, children and young people.
Place2Be
Advice and support for children's mental health and emotional wellbeing. https://www.place2be.org.uk/our-services/parents-and-carers/
YoungMinds
Resources and practical guidance for parents and carers. https://www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/
Childline
Help and support for children and young people. https://www.childline.org.uk/info-advice/your-feelings/
NSPCC
Advice for families and information about keeping children safe. https://www.nspcc.org.uk/advice-for-families/
Anna Freud
Resources supporting children's mental health and wellbeing. https://www.annafreud.org/
Mind
Mental health information and support. https://www.mind.org.uk/
Mental Health Foundation
Advice and resources to support positive mental health. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health
NHS Mental Health Services
Information about support available for children and young people. https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services/mental-health-services-for-young-people/children-young-people-mental-health-services-cypmhs/
Catholic Children's Society
Supporting children and families through a range of practical and emotional services. https://www.cathchild.org.uk/
The Education Hub
Mental health resources for parents, carers and school staff. https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2021/09/mental-health-resources-for-children-parents-carers-and-school-staff/
Porchlight
Support services for young people and families. https://www.porchlight.org.uk/commissioners-and-professionals/our-services/young-people-and-family-services
Wellbeing Apps and Online Tools
Headspace
Headspace offers guided mindfulness and meditation activities to support relaxation, focus and emotional wellbeing.
Kooth
Kooth is a free, safe and anonymous online counselling and emotional wellbeing service for children and young people.
Colorfy
A digital colouring app designed to promote mindfulness, relaxation and creativity.
Useful Guides for Parents
NHS Every Mind Matters
Simple advice and practical steps to improve mental wellbeing.
https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/
Medway Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing
Local support services and information for families.
Internet Matters
Helping parents keep children safe online.
https://www.internetmatters.org
CEOP Education
Advice about online safety and reporting concerns.
https://www.ceopeducation.co.uk
Need Further Support?
If you are concerned about your child's health, wellbeing or emotional welfare, please speak to your child's class teacher in the first instance, or contact the School Office. We will listen to your concerns and help you access the most appropriate support for your child and family.
Telephone: 01634 832578
Email: office@st-michaels.medway.sch.uk