Emotional and Mental Wellbeing
At Birchanger Primary School, we take immense pride in our commitment to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of every child. We understand that a child's emotional wellbeing is crucial to their overall development and success, both academically and personally. To help our students navigate their emotions, we implement the Zones of Regulation program, which equips children with the tools they need to recognise and manage their feelings effectively. This program fosters emotional resilience, enabling our students to understand their emotions and develop strategies to regulate them in a healthy way. This year we have also implemented myHappyMind in to our curriculum which is a program designed to support children's mental health and wellbeing by teaching them the science of positive psychology, resilience, and emotional regulation. The program is structured around five key themes: "Meet Your Brain," "Celebrate," "Appreciate," "Relate," and "Engage," each focusing on different aspects of mental health, such as understanding brain function, building self-esteem, practicing gratitude, fostering positive relationships, and staying engaged with life's challenges.
Through myHappymind, children learn how to manage their emotions, build resilience, and develop a positive mindset. The program uses age-appropriate activities and resources to make these concepts accessible and engaging for young learners. By embedding these practices into daily routines, myHappymind aims to create a positive, supportive environment where children can thrive emotionally and mentally.
Our dedication to mental health extends beyond the classroom. During playtimes, we utilize the Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) program, which provides structured support during unstructured times, allowing children to engage in meaningful, imaginative play that nurtures their social and emotional growth. Our activewear school uniform further enhances this experience by promoting physical activity and ensuring that our students are comfortable and ready to participate fully in outdoor play. For those who require additional support, we offer tailored pastoral care and individual programs for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), ensuring that every child receives the personalized attention they need to thrive. At Birchanger, we believe that a supportive, nurturing environment is key to helping our children flourish both in school and beyond.