Cantrell Primary School aims to promote positive mental health and wellbeing for our whole school community; pupils; staff and parents. We recognise that mental health and emotional wellbeing are just as important as physical health.

The World Health Organisation defines mental health and wellbeing as "a state of wellbeing in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community."

We are incredibly proud of our Play Buddy mentors, and they were selected because they have the right skills and attitude to helping others.

The roles and duties of the Play Buddy Mentors include:

• Being a listening ear for other pupils
• Being on duty outside in the playground during lunch times.
• Passing on any worries to a designated adult in school

Supporting Wellbeing and Mental Health in School

If children are in good health mentally and physically, they are better able to cope with the challenges of teaching and, when they feel positive, they are more open to new ideas, creativity and change, making them more present and effective in the classroom. Our ole in school is to ensure that all children are able to manage times of change and stress, be resilient, are supported to reach their potential and have access to help when they need it.

All pupils at Cantrell Primary School learn about what they can do to maintain positive mental health, what affects their mental health, how they can reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and where they can go if they need help and support. 

 Wellbeing and Mental Health for Children

Things that can help children stay mentally well include:

• Being in good physical health, eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise and seeking medical and dental help when needed.
• Having time and freedom to play, indoors and outdoors.
• Being part of a family that gets on well most of the time.
• Going to school - we take great care to look after the wellbeing of our pupils.
• Taking part in local activities for young people

Anna Freud - Talking Mental Health

Mental Health websites for children:

Childline - Calm Zone - www.childline.org.uk/toolbox/calm-zone/

BBC Bitesize - Kindness https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zhkybdm

7 ways to clam CBEEBIES - www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies/joinin/seven-techniques-for-helping-kids-keep-calm