Mental Health

"We learn how to look after our own mental health and our friends which helps support our right to the best possible health. (Article 24) We can have good mental health because we know how we can look after it." - Duckmanton pupil

The mental health and wellbeing of everyone within the Duckmanton Primary School community remains a priority within our school. We all have mental health and it is important that students learn how to maintain good mental health and wellbeing.

As well as providing support and intervention through our Learning Mentors and trained staff, we also encourage students to care for themselves as well as know who in school they can turn to for help and advice. 

Mental Health and Wellbeing and the UNCRC

Article 13: All children have the right to share freely with others what they learn, think and feel, by talking, drawing, writing or in any other way unless it harms other people.

Article 24: All children have the right to the best possible health care. 

Article 29: All children have the right to an education. 

Improving our Mindset

Healthy routines such as a good night's sleep, eating well and attending school on time and consistently can make a great start to looking after the mental health of our young people. Our Learning Mentors are always available at the start and end of the school day to speak to anyone who may have concerns. 

Key members of staff

Mr Beeden is the school's Mental Health and Wellbeing Lead and oversees the wellbeing provision offered to everyone in our school.

Mrs Wright is our PSHE Coordinator and monitors the delivery of mental health and wellbeing education across the curriculum.

Mrs Musson and Mrs Collins are our Learning Mentors and delivery both whole school mental health education sessions such as circle times as well as intervention and support. 

Mr Barlow is our names Governor for Mental Health & Wellbeing and supports the school community and those responsible for MHWB in school. 

Wellbeing Wednesday

Our Rights Ambassadors introduced Wellbeing Wednesday as part of our 2021/22 Outright Campaign. Because it was so effective, we decided we wanted to keep this on our timetables.

All students in Key Stage 2 take part in weekly wellbeing sessions which promote and teach wellbeing techniques which can be used by all, anywhere. Students will cover strategies in grounding, breathing, meditation and strategies that support the 5 Ways to Wellbeing philosophy. These are shared with parents via Class Dojo for anyone who may wish to explore strategies at home. 

Pastoral Support

We support the personal development of our pupils by offering Learning Mentor support where needed during their time with us. This may include our Jigsaw Nurture Group which is delivered by our Learning Mentors. 

Changing Lives Bolsover 

Duckmanton Primary School is supported in the wellbeing services we can offer through the Changing Lives service. 

The Changing Lives Service is part of a national trailblazer project, funded by the Government as part of its ambitious plans to transform children and young people’s mental health as cited in the NHS Long-Term Plan. They offer a range of services to the school including whole school and 1:1 initiatives. More information can be found by visiting: Changing Lives Bolsover

Mental Health and Wellbeing Support

We always encourage families and students to speak to a member of staff if you have any concerns about your own mental health and wellbeing or that of a loved one. 

Support and information is out there should you wish to seek your own advice and here are just a few websites that we have found useful: