Wellbeing at Ludworth

Who is responsible for Mental Health and Wellbeing at Ludworth?

We’re excited to announce that Mrs Holly Gregg, our Assistant Headteacher has taken on the additional role of Senior Mental Health Lead at Ludworth. Mrs Gregg oversees our Reception and Key Stage 1 classes and is also the driving force behind our Physical Education and Outdoor Learning. With her extensive experience and qualifications in mental health, Mrs Gregg is committed to developing a supportive and nurturing environment for both staff and children. As Senior Mental Health Lead, she is responsible for developing a comprehensive school-wide approach to mental health and wellbeing. This includes equipping staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to promote mental health awareness in the classroom and ensuring that all staff members feel confident in supporting children who wish to discuss their emotional wellbeing. Mrs Gregg’s passion for mental health and her compassionate demeanour make her an invaluable asset to our school community. We are fortunate to have her leading the way in creating a positive and supportive learning environment for all at Ludworth.

Learning mentor

While many of you know Miss Spink as the caring manager of our Breakfast Club and Stay and Play, you may not be aware of her additional role as Ludworth’s Learning Mentor. Miss Spink is a compassionate and skilled professional, who is dedicated to supporting children who may be struggling with emotional challenges or facing obstacles in their learning. She works one to one with children to provide individualised guidance, motivation, and support: addressing issues such as family difficulties, anxiety, or a lack of confidence. Miss Spink collaborates closely with our senior leadership team, class teachers, and parents to ensure that children receive the support they need. Her sessions are known for being fun, child centred, and supportive, making them a positiveexperience for children. If you believe that your child could benefit from working with Miss Spink, please don’t hesitate to speak with their class teacher. They can then complete an internal referral form, which will be reviewed by Mrs Hankey (our SENDCo). Once a spot becomes available in Miss Spink’s schedule, she will be happy to begin working with your child.

What else do we do?

At Ludworth this year, we have increased our lesson time for PSHE, from half an hour a week to anhour and a half a week. Every Monday morning, all children across school do circle time. This is where they check in with their teachers and classmates to discuss issues and develop strategies surrounding wellbeing. Children then take part in dedicated lessons for PSHE, this is where children develop the skills and knowledge, they need to be safe and healthy.

Year 5 – Seeds Of Happiness – For a number of years now, our Year 5 children take part in The Seeds of Happiness programme. The Seeds of Happiness is a fun and engaging course, where children learn about the science of happiness, and how they can positively impact their own happiness levels, and those of their friends and family, by the actions they take.

Reading Buddies – Kindfullness – It is proven that being kind to others can have a positive impact on your own mental health. That’s why we have established a Reading Buddies program. Year 6 children are paired with Reception children for weekly reading sessions, while Year 5 children mentor Year 1 children. These cross-age relationships provide opportunities for children to support one another and grow a sense of community within our school.

Mr Templar, a Level 3 Forest School Practitioner, is a valuable member of our wellbeing team, specialising in social interventions. He leads our Woodcraft for Wellbeing program, a six-week nature-based mindfulness and well-being initiative designed to promote emotional resilience and connection with the natural world. Additionally, Mr Templar facilitates LEGO Therapy sessions for children of all ages. This playful and engaging program provides a therapeutic space for children to express themselves, develop social skills, and enhance their overall wellbeing.