Wellbeing is how we are doing as individuals and communities. At Benedict, we focus on managing pupil, family and staff wellbeing in a variety of ways.
We are a Thrive setting. This means that we equip our staff in understanding, identifying and tackling the root causes of behaviour, and raise awareness of the importance of supporting children and young people’s social and emotional development. Thrive helps to build knowledge of social and emotional development to improve understanding of emotional health and wellbeing, and is based on the latest evidence around neuroscience and attachment theory.
We use the programme across the school to refine our PSHE offer, as well as through 1:1 interventions.
Benedict Academy is part of the Merton Schools Wellbeing Team Cluster. The Merton Schools Wellbeing Team (MSWT) work within schools to provide an additional source of support to young people, their families and the schools they go to. We offer support through a number of ways including a confidential and non-judgemental space for young people to explore difficulties, 1:1 sessions and workshops for parents to help them to support their young people and support for staff in keeping wellbeing and emotional health at the heart of school life. Part of this provision includes access to ‘Off The Record‘ support: Merton (talkofftherecord.org)
Merton Uplift is a Primary Care Mental Health service accessible to anyone living in the borough of Merton, or registered with a Merton GP or is 18 or older. They support anyone who has a mental health or wellbeing need – whether this is due to emotional difficulties or life stressors: Merton Uplift – Wellbeing, Talking Therapies and Primary Care
Parents/carers or any adult who needs it can complete a self-referral here: Referral Form (mayden.co.uk)
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 our Mental Health First aider.
