Our Whole School Approach to Well‑being

At St Mary’s we are committed to nurturing the emotional and mental well-being of all our pupils, staff and families. Our recent whole‑school self‑evaluation highlighted many strengths that we are proud to share with our community.

🌟 A Caring, Connected School Culture

• Our ethos places well-being at the heart of everything we do.

• Pupils feel safe, supported and listened to, and can easily identify trusted adults.

• Parents and families are welcomed into school through assemblies, workshops, celebrations and regular communication.

🌟 Strong, Visible Leadership for Well‑being

• We have a dedicated Health & Well-being Lead and active pupil groups such as the Wellbeing Warriors and Mini Vinnies.

• Well-being is a standing priority in our School Development Plan, reviewed regularly with input from staff, pupils and families.

🌟 Listening to Pupils’ Voices

• Pupils help shape school life through learner voice groups, assemblies and decision‑making activities in class.

• Daily check-ins and the PASS survey help us understand how pupils are feeling and respond to their needs.

🌟 Supportive Relationships With Families

• We offer regular communication through newsletters, social media and Parent Mail, as well as in-person conversations at the school gate.

• Families are invited to a wide range of events: class assemblies, workshops, stay‑and‑play sessions, Nativities, Advent services and more.

🌟 High‑Quality Support for All Pupils

• Staff know pupils and their needs extremely well.

• We provide:

  • ELSA support

  • A sensory room and Cwtch space

  • Targeted nurture and breakfast provision

  • Strong links with services including CAMHS, InReach, Educational Psychology, GEMS, Play Therapy and other local agencies

🌟 A Warm, Enriching Environment

• Our school environment includes:

  • A sensory room

  • Outdoor classroom and forest school area

  • Outdoor prayer garden

  • Welcoming, calm spaces for pupils

• Outdoor learning, buddy systems and forest school are embedded across the school.

🌟 A Curriculum That Builds Confidence, Resilience and Emotional Literacy

• Daily check-ins, social stories, 5‑point scales, meditation, RSE, Health & Well‑being lessons and ELSA strategies are part of everyday life.

• Pupils learn about emotions, self-regulation and healthy relationships.

• Physical activity and creativity play a central role through the Daily Mile, expressive arts, music, dance and local cultural events.

🌟 Strong Community Connections

• Our pupils regularly engage with the wider community, including library visits, nursing home visits, parish events, and local celebrations.

• We work closely with a range of agencies to ensure that families receive timely and appropriate support when needed.