We prioritise our pupils' emotional well-being and mental health. A positive and supportive environment benefits our pupils in every aspect of their lives, both inside and outside of the classroom.

Our focus is on providing resources and support for students who may be struggling with emotional and mental health issues and developing the tools to succeed. We also offer programs and activities that promote mindfulness, self-care, and resilience. By prioritising mental health and emotional well-being, we aim to help our pupils thrive academically and personally.

Emotional well-being and mental health are critical for children's overall development and success in life. Positive emotional well-being allows children to develop resilience, manage stress, and build healthy relationships with others. Early intervention and support for mental health issues such as anxiety can prevent more severe problems in the future. Parents, caregivers, and teachers must prioritise emotional and mental health by fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, promoting healthy habits, and seeking professional help when necessary. Addressing emotional well-being and mental health early on will help children thrive long-term.

Increasing awareness and understanding

During the year, we use part of our Citizenship Program to spread awareness of mental well-being to our students using a range of activities. 

Our discussion topics cover:

• It’s good to be me
• It’s ok not to be ok
• Why is healthy eating important?
• Why is exercising good for my body?
• How can I keep my mind healthy?
• How can I self-regulate?
• Keeping clean
• Why is sleep important?
• Conflict Resolution
• How to be a friend

The Zones of Regulation

Zones is coming to WDA in Spring 2024! At West Drayton, the key message is that we want to help children all understand that it is OK to feel angry, be worried or feel scared and that they need to find ways to help themselves manage those uncomfortable feelings and self-regulate. Click here to find out more. 

Who can I talk to?

At West Drayton Academy, we have different means that the  children can access support. 

In every classroom there is a ‘Feelings Box’. the pupils have the ability to write down any worries or concerns they have. The boxes are monitored daily by the class teacher and addressed as necessary. 

Learning Mentors 

Mrs Cox and Ms Wicks are our school learning mentors who provide our pupils with coping strategies, enhance their motivation, raise their aspirations, and encourage them to re-engage in learning. Ms Wicks is also trained in, Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA).

Areas that an ELSA can support in: 

• Loss and bereavement
• Emotional Literacy
• Self-esteem
• Social Skills
• Friendship issues
• Relationships
• Managing strong feelings
• Anxiety and worries
• Bullying
• Conflict
• Emotional Regulation
• Growth Mindset
• Social and therapeutic stories
• Problem-solving

How to support your child at home

As a parent or caregiver, you play an important role when it comes to emotional well-being and mental health. Below are links to websites that offer information and examples of how best to support your child. It is important for your child to see the partnership between school and home, please speak to school staff if you have any concerns or if you wish to seek support.