Social, emotional, mental health & wellbeing

“We would never tell someone with a broken leg that they should stop wallowing and get it together. We don’t consider taking medication for an ear infection something to be ashamed of. We shouldn’t treat mental health conditions any differently.” – Michelle Obama

It is widely recognised that a child's emotional health and wellbeing influences their cognitive development and learning, as well as their physical and social health and their mental wellbeing in adulthood. At Millfields Primary School we have an important role to play in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our pupils. We do this by developing approaches tailored to the particular needs of our pupils. It is a statutory duty to promote the welfare of our pupils which includes preventing impairment of children's health or development and taking action to enable children to have the best outcomes.

Supporting the Social, Emotional, Mental Health and well-being of the children and adults connected to Millfields is at the forefront of everything we do. We believe it is important that every child knows we care about every aspect of their lives and that we are here to care for them and nurture them without passing judgement, in a positive, caring and constructive way.

We take the well-being of our children very seriously and fully understand that if a child is feeling anxious about something in their lives, they may not be in the right frame of mind to be able to learn. We have staff who are qualified as mental health first aiders to help support children who find it difficult to cope with their anxieties and particular behaviours which are showing us they may need extra help and support.

We are proud to say that we are an Attachment Aware School, which means all staff have a had a high level of training to support children who may have difficulties to form relationships with other adults or peers for a number of reasons. See the links below:

If you do have concerns regarding your child’s emotional or mental health there are a range of options we can share with you to help you support your child. All discussions and referrals are completely confidential. Contact your child’s class teacher or Mrs Kathryn Russell for more advice.

Email: krussell@millfields.essex.sch.uk

Millfields is part of the Tendring Families First (TFF) and we can refer to them for help for children and families for a range of services, including counselling, play therapy and family support. For more information on TFF follow the link: 

The Emotional Well-being and Mental health Service (EWMHS) is another vital service for supporting young people’s mental well- being. Anybody can contact them directly for support, including children: 

Chill & Chat

Chill and chat is a lunchtime session, run by Mrs Drysdale, where children have a safe place to go at lunchtime if they need someone to talk to.

The session takes place in the clubroom, which is a safe and quiet space that is accessible to both infant and junior children.

The sessions provide support to children who may be experiencing emotional, social or behavioural difficulties.

Children can come along if they need a moment to regulate their emotions, would like a chat or just have some time to read, draw, colour or relax. Playdoh, fidgets and cuddly toys are also available. 

Child Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader - Mrs Kathryn Russell

Child Mental Health and Wellbeing Link Governor - Ms Julie Barton

Staff Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader - Mrs Rhiannon Macdonald 

Child Mental Health and Wellbeing Link Governor - Ms Julie Barton