Hexham’s Queen Elizabeth High School has been honored with the School Mental Health Award, achieving a Silver standard from the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools. This accolade recognizes the school’s comprehensive efforts to support the mental health and wellbeing of both students and staff. The school has implemented a variety of initiatives, including one-on-one mentoring, wellbeing group activities, and access to professional counselors, all aimed at fostering a supportive and healthy environment.
Comprehensive Mental Health Support
Queen Elizabeth High School has made significant strides in promoting mental health awareness and support within its community. The school offers a range of activities designed to enhance the mental wellbeing of students and staff. These include one-on-one mentoring sessions, group activities focused on wellbeing, and access to professional counselors. Additionally, the school has integrated mental health education into its curriculum, ensuring that students receive essential information about self-care and mental health management through lessons, assemblies, and promotional materials.
The school’s commitment to mental health extends beyond the classroom. Parents and staff have also been provided with youth mental health first aid training, which has led to the formation of a parent support group. This initiative aims to break down stigmas and misconceptions about mental health, fostering a more open and supportive community. The presence of a family liaison officer and a school dog, Arlo, further exemplifies the school’s dedication to creating a nurturing environment for all.
Recognition and Impact
The recognition from the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Queen Elizabeth High School’s staff and students. Neil Seaton, the head of the school, expressed immense pride in the efforts made to promote mental health awareness and support. He emphasized the importance of destigmatizing mental health issues and promoting emotional wellbeing as crucial aspects of the school’s mission.
The award highlights the positive impact of the school’s mental health initiatives on students’ overall wellbeing. By fostering an environment where mental health is openly discussed and supported, Queen Elizabeth High School has created a space where students feel comfortable seeking help and maintaining their emotional health. This supportive atmosphere not only helps students succeed academically but also enhances their overall quality of life.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Queen Elizabeth High School aims to continue its efforts in promoting mental health and wellbeing. The school plans to expand its mental health programs and initiatives, ensuring that all students and staff have access to the support they need. By building on the success of their current programs, the school hopes to further enhance the mental health and wellbeing of its community.
The school’s commitment to mental health is part of a broader movement within the education system to prioritize the emotional and psychological wellbeing of students. The School Mental Health Award, established by the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools and social enterprise Minds Ahead, aims to make a positive impact at all levels of the education system. Queen Elizabeth High School’s achievement serves as an inspiration to other schools, demonstrating the importance and benefits of investing in mental health support.
