At Overbury CE First School we are committed to promoting positive mental health for every member of our staff and pupil body, their families and governors. We pursue this aim using universal, whole school approaches and specialised targeted approaches aimed at vulnerable pupils and through the use of effective policies and procedures we ensure a safe and supportive environment for all affected – both directly and indirectly – by mental health issues. We know that everyone experiences life challenges that make us vulnerable, and at times anyone may need additional emotional support. We take the view that positive mental health is everybody’s business and that we all have a role to play.
Committed To Promoting Positive Mental Health
Mental Health and Well-being
Promoting Positive Mental Health Across Our School Community
Whole-School Commitment to Wellbeing


Overbury CofE First School
Teaching About Mental Health at Overbury CE First School
Mental health education is built into our PSHE curriculum and everyday school life, supported by the DfE RSE guidance and our whole-school use of Zones of Regulation. Children learn to understand their emotions, develop self-regulation skills and recognise when they need support.
By the end of Primary School, pupils learn that mental wellbeing is a normal part of life; that everyone experiences a wide range of emotions; and how to recognise, talk about and judge their feelings appropriately. They understand the value of exercise, time outdoors, friendships, community activities and hobbies, as well as the impact of loneliness and bullying. They learn simple self-care strategies and know when and where to seek help for themselves or others, including online issues. Pupils are also taught that mental ill health is common and often improves with early support.
Lessons are tailored to each cohort but always focus on building confidence, language and understanding around emotional wellbeing. This learning is reinforced through assemblies across the year.
Overbury CofE First School
Concerns about Positive Mental health and Wellbeing
Whilst all staff have a responsibility to promote the mental health of pupils, staff with a specific relevant remit include:
School staff could become aware of changes in behaviour which may indicate a pupil is experiencing mental health or emotional wellbeing issues.

Mental Health or Emotional Changes
These changes may include:
- Physical signs of harm that are repeated or appear non-accidental
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Increased isolation from friends or family, becoming socially withdrawn
- Changes in activity and mood
- Lowering of academic achievement
- Talking or joking about self-harm or suicide
- Expressing feelings of failure, uselessness or loss of hope
- Changes in clothing – e.g. long sleeves in warm weather
- Secretive behaviour
- Skipping PE or getting changed secretively
- Lateness to or absence from school
- Repeated physical pain or nausea with no evident cause
- An increase in lateness or absenteeism
Any member of staff who is concerned about the mental health or wellbeing of a pupil should speak to Emma Ross (mental health lead) in the first instance.
Overbury CofE First School
Working with Parents, Carers and Our School Community
We recognise the vital role families play in children’s emotional wellbeing and work closely with parents and carers to support this. We ensure they know who to contact with concerns, share clear information about mental health through our communication channels, make key policies easy to access and keep families informed about what children are learning.
Our Family Engagement and Support Lead, Marijana Filipovic-Carter from Move-More, is available to discuss concerns around behaviour, social and emotional development and wellbeing. With over ten years’ experience, she offers one-to-one support, runs parent sessions and webinars, delivers health programmes and provides regular wellbeing newsletters.

Overbury CofE First School
Training
As a minimum, all staff will receive regular training about recognising and responding to mental health issues as part of their regular child protection training to enable them to keep pupils safe. The Mental Health Lead will receive professional Mental Health First Aid training or equivalent. We will publish relevant information to staff who wish to learn more about mental health and this policy will be provided to all staff as part of their induction. Training opportunities for staff who require more in-depth knowledge will be considered as part of our performance management process and additional CPD will be supported throughout the year where it becomes appropriate.
