Mental Health and Wellbeing

At Sarum St Paul's, we know that children’s emotional wellbeing is just as important as their academic progress, and that parents and carers play a key role in helping children feel safe, understood and supported. Our approach is built around kindness, consistency and early help, so that small concerns can be addressed before they become bigger challenges.

At our school, we support children to develop healthy relationships, manage feelings and build resilience. We encourage adults to notice changes in behaviour and mood, such as withdrawal, irritability, worrying more than usual or changes in sleep and appetite. When children feel listened to, they are more likely to express their needs appropriately and to cope with everyday stressors such as friendships, learning demands and family routines.

We also offer targeted support for children who may need additional help. For example, ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) sessions provide a structured, nurturing space where pupils can talk about their feelings and learn practical strategies for emotional regulation. This support is designed to be child-centred, age-appropriate and focused on building confidence and coping skills.

In addition, our Drawing and Talking intervention supports children who find it easier to communicate through creative activities. By using drawing as a starting point, children can express thoughts and feelings in a safe way, while adults help them make sense of experiences and develop language for emotions. This can be particularly helpful for children who struggle to put their feelings into words or who may be anxious about certain situations.

If you are concerned about your child’s wellbeing, we encourage you to speak with us. Early conversations can make a real difference, whether the concern is about friendships, worries, changes at home, or emotional responses in school. Together, we can agree on next steps and ensure your child receives the right support at the right time, helping them to thrive both emotionally and academically.