Last week we recognised the all-important Children’s Mental Health Week, and the powerful effects of the North East’s efforts are still being felt now!
Evolve Academy, a pioneering alternative provision school, showed true dedication to making a significant impact during this crucial time.
With this year's theme being 'My Voice Matters,' the school went above and beyond to spotlight the critical work needed to support young people's mental health. And it’s no secret that this support really is needed!
Community days which have the power to change lives
For students suffering from poor mental health, Evolve Academy can offer a specific standout initiative: Community Mental Health Days.
These community gatherings take place every term and offer a safe space for students, their families, and staff to come together as one to talk openly about mental health concerns. We must stamp out the stigma once and for all!
Robert Bell, Head Teacher at Evolve Academy, said: “Our young people come to us with very poor attendance rates having effectively dropped out of mainstream education as they’ve been unable to regulate their emotions and aren’t able to cope with the challenges of school life.”
Commenting on the Community Mental Health Days initiative, he said: “It is not an exaggeration to say that these community days can be life changing for the families we serve and this week’s session to mark Children’s Health Week was no different.
“Having parents in for the whole day to learn about mental wellbeing alongside their children and with the staff as one complete unit is incredibly powerful. Parents also get time to talk to each other and address their own worries and concerns.
“There’s a palpable sense of togetherness and unity, where everyone’s voice matters and no one feels isolated. We’re all in it together learning to heal, learn and grow.”
Prioritising the power of a good night’s sleep
The most recent Community Mental Health Day also included a sleep clinic with Kerry Davies from The Sleep Fixer.
Here, students, parents, and staff were given the tools and resources to better understand the importance of a good night’s sleep to improve mood and concentration levels.
Mr Bell added: “Our commitment to prioritising children's mental health extends beyond the classroom to support our students’ parents and carers. Through innovative approaches like Community Mental Health Days we create a supportive community where everyone's voice is heard.
“As Children's Mental Health Week draws to a close, Evolve Academy stands firm in its dedication to championing mental wellbeing.”
Evolve Academy aims to serve as a beacon of support for the entire community, offering Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) sessions, stress management workshops, and regular training sessions throughout the academic year.
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “As we said ourselves last week, the importance of children’s mental health should be recognised all year round, not just during one dedicated week. And Evolve Academy is going to great lengths that demonstrate they also believe in this.
“Many schools across the country could benefit from taking inspiration from this academy. It’s not just about saying you support children’s mental health, but actually proving it throughout the academic year. As a result, more of our schools and pupils will flourish.”
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