Mental Health and Wellbeing
At Little Parndon, we prioritise the mental health and wellbeing of our students and staff, understanding that a supportive and nurturing environment is essential for everyone to thrive. To ensure this, we have taken several proactive steps, including appointing an in-house therapist.
Our In-House Therapist
We are proud to have Shelly Reynald as our dedicated in-house therapist. Since joining our team, Shelly has had a profound impact on the wellbeing of our community. Her work has led to significant improvements in both staff and student attendance. Our wellbeing surveys also reflect a marked enhancement in how our students and staff feel on a daily basis. Shelly offers one-on-one sessions, group therapy, and workshops that address various mental health topics, ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need.
If you wish to refer your child to Shelly, please email admin@bmatlittleparndon.org.uk
Our Therapy Dog - Pepe
At Little Parndon Primary Academy, our therapy dog, Pepe, plays a vital role in supporting the mental health and well-being of both pupils and staff. Pepe is a friendly and comforting presence, greeting pupils as they come into school and helping to create a positive start to their day. He loves to listen to children read, providing a non-judgmental audience that boosts their confidence and enjoyment of reading. Pepe also critiques their work with a wag of his tail, making learning fun and engaging. For those feeling down or anxious, Pepe offers a warm belly to rub, providing emotional support and a calming influence. His presence at LPA is cherished by all, as he fosters a nurturing environment where everyone feels cared for and valued.
Nurture Groups and Interventions
To further support our students, we run a daily nurture group each afternoon and provide additional nurture interventions during lunchtime. These sessions are designed to create a safe and supportive space where students can explore their feelings, develop social skills, and build resilience. Our nurture groups are a vital part of our strategy to ensure that every child feels valued and understood.
Emotional Literacy and PSHE Curriculum
We believe that emotional literacy is a crucial skill for our students' overall development. Through our comprehensive PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic) curriculum and regular assemblies, we teach children to recognise and understand their emotions. Our lessons are designed to help students become more conscious of their feelings, understand how to manage them, and develop healthy coping strategies. This proactive approach equips our students with the tools they need to navigate the challenges of daily life effectively.
Wellbeing Initiatives and Activities
In addition to our structured programs, we also offer various wellbeing initiatives and activities throughout the year. These include mindfulness sessions, yoga classes, and stress management workshops for both students and staff. Our goal is to create a holistic environment that promotes mental health and wellbeing at every level.
Community and Parental Engagement
We recognise the importance of involving the entire school community, including parents and carers, in our mental health initiatives. We regularly post informational sessions and workshop interventions for parents, providing them with resources and strategies to support their children's mental health at home. By fostering strong partnerships with families, we aim to create a consistent and supportive network for our students.
At Little Parndon, mental health and wellbeing are not just buzzwords but fundamental aspects of our school culture. We are committed to providing ongoing support and creating an environment where every member of our community can flourish.