Our Commitment to Wellbeing at St. Mary’s Catholic Primary School
At St. Mary’s Catholic Primary School, the wellbeing of our pupils is a core value that guides everything we do. We believe that a focus on wellbeing is essential for the holistic development of each child, ensuring they are happy, healthy, and able to thrive both academically and personally.
Wellbeing is integrated throughout our curriculum, with lessons and activities designed to promote physical, emotional, and mental health. Our approach emphasises the importance of self-care, resilience, and positive relationships, equipping our pupils with the skills and knowledge to manage their own wellbeing effectively.
To support these efforts, we have established a group of Wellbeing Champions, made up of representatives from each class across the school. These Wellbeing Champions meet regularly to discuss ways to promote a positive school environment and to implement wellbeing initiatives that benefit all pupils. Their role is crucial in helping to create a supportive, inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels valued and respected.
In addition to our pupil Wellbeing Champions, we also have staff members who are identified as Wellbeing Champions. These staff members meet regularly to discuss staff wellbeing and identify improvements that can be made. This ensures that our wellbeing commitment extends to everyone in our school community, fostering a positive and supportive working environment.
Through our commitment to wellbeing, St. Mary’s Catholic Primary School aims to nurture a caring and compassionate community where every child and staff member feels safe, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.
What is Mental and Emotional Wellbeing?
Mental and emotional wellbeing is about more than just feeling happy—it involves a range of positive emotions and states of mind. According to Sarah Stewart-Brown, a professor of public health at the University of Warwick, while happiness is part of mental wellbeing, it’s only one piece of the puzzle.
Wellbeing includes feelings of contentment, enjoyment, and confidence, as well as being engaged with the world around you. It’s also about having self-esteem, self-confidence, and feeling empowered to do the things you want to do. Good relationships, which bring joy and connection to both you and those around you, are another key aspect of mental wellbeing.
However, maintaining good mental wellbeing doesn’t mean you’ll never face challenges or difficult emotions. As Professor Stewart-Brown explains, it means having the resilience to cope when things get tough, helping you navigate through difficult times with strength and balance.
Wellbeing Champions
Our Wellbeing and Mental Health Lead is Deputy Headteacher, Claire Clinton
Our Wellbeing and Mental Health Governor is Siobhan Carton.