Pastoral Care & Mental Health

Pastoral Care and Mental Health Support at St. Chad's Catholic Primary School

At St. Chad's Catholic Primary School, we are deeply committed to the well-being and mental health of our children and their families. We believe that a strong foundation of pastoral care is essential for children to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. Our approach aligns with the principles of the UNICEF Rights Respecting Schools initiative, which ensures that children’s rights are at the heart of our ethos and culture.

Our Approach to Pastoral Care

Pastoral care at St. Chad's is designed to support the holistic development of our children, ensuring that they feel safe, valued, and understood. Our comprehensive support system includes emotional support, guidance, and fostering an inclusive environment where every child can flourish.

Key elements of our pastoral care program include:

Emotional Support: We provide a safe space for students to express their feelings and seek help when needed. Our staff are trained to offer empathetic listening and practical advice, helping children navigate any challenges they may face. This aligns with Article 12 (Respect for the views of the child), which emphasises that children have the right to express their views freely and be heard in all matters affecting them.
Well-Being: Children participate in a variety of activities and lessons aimed at promoting well-being and positive mental health, resilience, and self-esteem among our children. These lessons are integrated into our daily school life and are tailored to meet the needs of each individual child, supporting Article 29 (Goals of education), which states that education should develop each child’s personality, talents, and mental and physical abilities to their fullest potential.
Building Positive Relationships: We promote an environment where positive relationships are encouraged between peers, teachers, and families. We believe that fostering strong, trusting relationships is key to effective pastoral care, in line with Article 15 (Freedom of association), which supports children’s right to meet with others and join groups, as long as it does not harm others.

Mental Health Support

At St. Chad's, we recognise the importance of mental health as a crucial aspect of overall well-being. We strive to create an environment where mental health is openly discussed, and support is readily available.

Mental Health Awareness: We educate our children about mental health and the importance of seeking help when needed. Through assemblies, workshops, and classroom activities, we encourage a culture of understanding and empathy, supporting Article 13 (Freedom of expression), which emphasises the right of children to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas of all kinds.
My Happy Mind is a positive mental health program designed to help children build emotional resilience, enhance well-being, and develop a growth mindset. The program offers practical tools and activities to promote mental well-being in children. Alongside the program, there is a Parent App that empowers parents to support their child’s emotional development. The app provides valuable resources, tips, and guidance to help create a positive and supportive environment at home.
Access to Professional Support: We provide referrals to external mental health professionals and services when necessary, ensuring that children receive the appropriate care and support. This is consistent with Article 24 (Health and health services), which affirms that every child has the right to the best possible health and access to healthcare services.
Support for Families: We believe in a holistic approach to mental health that includes supporting families. We offer resources, workshops, and guidance to help parents and carers support their children’s mental health and well-being at home, in line with Article 18 (Parental responsibilities and state assistance), which states that parents or caregivers are responsible for the upbringing and development of the child, and they should receive appropriate assistance in this role.

Meet Mr. Lewis, Our Pastoral Family Support Worker

Mr. Lewis is our dedicated Pastoral Family Support Worker at St. Chad's Catholic Primary School. With a deep commitment to supporting the well-being of our children and their families, Mr. Lewis plays a crucial role in our pastoral care team.

Role and Responsibilities: Mr. Lewis is here to offer support and guidance to children and families facing challenges, whether they are related to school, home, or personal circumstances. He works closely with parents, carers, and external agencies to ensure a coordinated approach to each child's needs.
How Mr. Lewis Can Help: Whether you need advice on parenting, help accessing external services, or just someone to talk to, Mr. Lewis is available to assist you. He provides a confidential, non-judgmental space for families to discuss their concerns and work towards positive outcomes.
Contact Mr. Lewis: If you would like to speak with Mr. Lewis, please contact the school office to arrange a meeting. 0121 464 6554 enquiry@st-chads.bham.sch.uk

We’re Here for You

At St. Chad's Catholic Primary School, we are dedicated to the pastoral care and mental health of our students, guided by the principles of the UNICEF Rights Respecting Schools initiative. We understand that each child and family is unique, and we are here to provide the support you need. Together, we can create a nurturing and supportive environment where every child can thrive.