Pastoral Care

Alongside our curriculum based on conduct that builds character, we prioritise the teaching of Health and Relationship Education, so that children have the knowledge of how to navigate out increasingly complex world. This is so that children know how to be safe and healthy, and how to manage their academic, personal and social lives in a positive way.

Our PSHE sessions are complimented by class Thrive targets, to support the children to develop emotionally and socially. If children individually face a bump in the road - academically, emotionally or socially - they can be provided with additional pastoral support, led by our Pastoral Lead Cara Kemp. This might be through a Drawing and Talking, Emotional Regulation or Social Skills intervention, or a 1:1 Thrive session.

Merton Schools Wellbeing Team

Benedict Academy is part of the Merton Schools Wellbeing Team Cluster. The MSWT work within schools to provide an additional source of support to young people, their families and the schools that they go to. We offer support in a number of ways:

- Through a confidential and non-judgemental place to explore difficulties;

- Within 1:1 sessions;

- Through weekly workshops for parents and carers.

Part of this provision includes access to 'Off The Record' support. 

Merton Uplift - for parents and carers

Merton Uplift is a Primary Care Mental Health service accessible to anyone living in the borough of Merton, or registered with a Merton GP, aged 18 or over. They support anyone who has a mental health or wellbeing need - whether this is due to emotional difficulties or life stressors:

Parents/carers or any adult who needs it can complete a self-referral here.

Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health First Aid allows for early detection and intervention by teaching participants about the signs and symptoms of specific mental health illnesses. Our Pastoral Care Lead Cara Kemp is a Mental Health First Aider, alongside teaching assistant Chloe Blagrove.