Wellbeing at Brandwood
Welcome to our Wellbeing Page
At Brandwood, we prioritise the mental health and wellbeing of our learners, parents, carers, and the entire school community.
What is Mental Health and Wellbeing?
We have a shared understanding of these concepts:
- Mental health is how we feel about ourselves and our lives and how we cope with challenges. It can change depending on what is happening in our lives at any given moment.
- Wellbeing is the state of being comfortable, healthy, and happy.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines mental health as:
“A state of well-being 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 her or his community.”
Aligned with Article 24 of the UNCRC, every child has the right to the best possible health. This includes access to good quality education on health and wellbeing, ensuring they remain physically and mentally healthy.
Wellbeing Award for Schools
At our school, we are deeply committed to supporting the wellbeing of our entire community, including children, parents, carers, staff, and governors. This commitment is reflected in our achievement of the Wellbeing Award for Schools (WAS), first earned in May 2020 and successfully reassessed in July 2023.
The award places mental health and wellbeing at the heart of school life, recognising our whole-school approach. It underscores the importance of strong relationships across the school community, which support emotional wellbeing for everyone. Learners feel confident discussing strategies for staying healthy, including talking about their feelings with adults and peers.
What impact does the award have on schools?
- 93% of accredited schools agreed the award had a large or medium impact on pupil wellbeing
- 93% of accredited schools agreed it had a large or medium impact on parent wellbeing
- 93% of accredited schools agreed it had a large or medium impact on staff wellbeing
- 95% of accredited schools agreed the award had improved pupils' behaviour
- 93% of accredited schools agreed it had improved staff wellbeing
Support for Learners
We provide targeted support to ensure all learners feel valued and cared for, including:
- Play opportunities that foster teamwork and friendship
- Programmes and initiatives to promote positive mental health
Support for Parents and Carers
We work closely with parents and carers to provide resources and guidance on supporting their children’s mental health and wellbeing. Our team is here to help with:
- Advice on managing stress and anxiety
- Workshops and information sessions
- Signposting to external support services
Wellbeing News
Stay up-to-date with the latest initiatives, events, and resources focused on wellbeing at Brandwood. Check this section regularly for updates on:
- New programmes and activities
- Success stories and awards
- Upcoming events promoting health and happiness
Wellbeing Resources
Explore these resources for additional support:
- Childline: Info & Advice
- Childline Toolbox
- Cosmic Kids Yoga YouTube Channel
- New Horizon Holistic Centre
- Be Kind to My Mind
- Kooth (for 11-24 year olds)