Pupils’ mental health, top concern for Head Teachers
85% of Head Teachers in the North East are most worried about their pupils’ mental health, a new new survey conducted by The Key has revealed.
The schools information service polled its members for its annual Summer Report and found that out of a possible 14 health and safeguarding issues, mental health problems were the biggest concern nationally, followed by
domestic violence and cyber bullying.
Our region has the highest number of Head Teachers stating this as a major concern, compared to 72% in the South East.
Source: The Key Summer Report 2015
However, the report states that the findings in the North East (as well as in Yorkshire and the Humber) are based on fewer than 100 respondents and, therefore, might not give as accurate a reflection on the region as for the rest of England.
The Key survey also found that only 8% of Head Teachers in our region consider gangs and youth violence a major issue, but 42% are worried about drug use affecting their pupils. You can read the entire report here.
The first mental health champion for schools has also recently been appointed, as part of a wider Government commitment to invest £1.25bn in young people’s mental health. Natasha Devon MBE was chosen due to her work in dealing with mental health and body image concerns.
Further reading:
Pupil’s mental health tops Head Teachers’ concerns (BBC)
Mental health of pupils a ‘top concern’ for Head Teachers (The Telegraph)
Natasha Devon appointed first mental health champion for schools (Schools Week)