Wellbeing at The Haven School

“Mental health is 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.” (World Health Organisation)

At The Haven Primary School, we aim to promote positive mental health and wellbeing for every member of our school community; pupils, parents and staff members alike, as we understand nurturing our mental health and emotional wellbeing is as important as our physical health. We pursue this aim using both universal, whole school approaches and specialised, targeted approaches aimed at those who need further support.

We provide information, advice and resources for our community wherever possible in order to equip them with the resilience, resources and tools to live healthy lives, both mentally and physically, and find additional support wherever necessary. In addition to promoting positive wellbeing, we aim to recognise and respond to mental ill health.

The Church of England vision for Education states that ‘nurturing the health and wellbeing of pupils is a key facet of holistic education for human flourishing. It should not be seen as a stand-alone item but as part of an embedded approach across the school’s ethos, linking with other aspects of health education, spiritual development, the wider school curriculum and the ethos and policies that underpin the school. Any whole-school approach needs to ensure good partnership with other agencies and health services.’

To support our aims, we are currently working towards achieving the Wellbeing Award for Schools (WAS) to ensure wellbeing is embedded into every area of school our community.