If you have a worry or an issue, it’s always best to talk to a trusted adult about it.

On this page you will find information about who you can talk to at the academy, and some organisations you can talk to outside of school hours.

In our CARE Curriculum lessons we learn about the definition and importance of having a trusted adult. Every student at Co-op Academy Belle Vue should know who their trusted adult is.

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Mental Health and Wellbeing at Our Academy

Every child matters. Every mind matters.

At our academy, we believe that looking after mental health is just as important as looking after physical health. We want every student to feel safe, valued, supported and confident that there is always someone they can talk to. Growing up can sometimes be difficult. Young people experience changes in their friendships, relationships, emotions and responsibilities. Schoolwork, examinations, social media and challenges at home can also affect how they feel.

It is normal to experience a range of emotions, including sadness, worry, frustration and stress. However, when these feelings become overwhelming, last for a long time or begin to affect everyday life, additional support may be needed. No student or family should feel that they have to manage these challenges alone. Our aim is to work closely with students, parents, carers and specialist services to support positive mental health and wellbeing.

1. Understanding your child's mental health

Mental health affects how we think, feel and behave. It can influence our relationships, confidence, learning, sleep and physical health. Good mental health does not mean feeling happy all the time. It means having support, developing ways to manage difficult emotions and knowing when to ask for help.

Signs that your child might need additional support

Every young person is different. However, changes in behaviour or emotions can sometimes suggest that a child is struggling.

These might include:

• Becoming quieter, withdrawn or spending more time alone.

• Feeling worried, anxious, upset or angry more often than usual.

• Changes in sleep, appetite or energy.

• Losing interest in activities they previously enjoyed.

• Finding it difficult to concentrate or complete schoolwork.

• Avoiding school or becoming increasingly worried about attending.

• Changes in friendships or relationships.

• Expressing feelings of hopelessness or low self-worth.

Not every change means that a young person has a mental health condition. However, if you notice changes that continue, become more serious or concern you, it is important to start a conversation and seek advice.

2. How parents and carers can support mental health at home

 

Talk and listen

Make time to ask your child how they are feeling. Listen carefully without interrupting or judging. They may not want to talk straight away, but knowing you are available can make a difference.

Try asking: "How have things been for you recently?" or "Is there anything worrying you?"

Support healthy sleep

Regular sleep helps young people manage emotions, concentrate and maintain their wellbeing. Encourage consistent bedtimes, a relaxing evening routine and time away from screens before bed.

 

Encourage physical activity

Walking, sport, dancing and spending time outdoors can support mental wellbeing. Activities do not need to be expensive or competitive. Finding something your child enjoys is what matters.

 

Create healthy digital habits

Talk openly about social media, online friendships and the pressure to compare ourselves with others. Agree on reasonable boundaries together and encourage time for offline activities.

 

Keep everyday routines

Regular meals, sleep, school attendance and family time can provide stability and reassurance. During difficult periods, small and manageable routines can help children feel more secure.

 

Ask for help early

You do not need to wait until a problem becomes serious. Speak to your child's school, GP or a trusted support service if you are worried. Seeking help early can prevent difficulties from becoming more severe.

3. Advice for students: looking after your mental health

There are simple things you can do to look after yourself, even when life feels difficult.

Remember these five things:

1. Talk to someone. A trusted adult, family member, friend or member of school staff can help you find support.

2. Stay connected. Spend time with people who make you feel safe, included and valued.

3. Look after your body. Getting enough sleep, eating regularly and being active can help your mood.

4. Take breaks. Make time for things you enjoy and give yourself space away from schoolwork and social media.

5. Ask for help. If you are struggling, you deserve support. You do not have to wait until things get worse.

You do not need to have all the answers or know exactly how to explain your feelings before asking for help.

4. Supporting your child through examination stress

Examinations can create additional pressure for young people. Some students worry about disappointing others, achieving certain grades or managing the amount of work they need to complete. Families can help by encouraging a realistic revision timetable, regular breaks, sleep and positive conversations about progress. Try to praise effort, preparation and improvement rather than focusing only on grades. If your child becomes overwhelmed, struggles to sleep, regularly feels unwell or becomes increasingly distressed about examinations, speak to the academy so that appropriate support can be considered.

5. When your child is anxious about attending school

Sometimes anxiety, friendship difficulties, bullying, unmet learning needs or other challenges can make attending school feel difficult. If your child is struggling to attend, please contact us as early as possible. We will work with you to understand the reasons, identify barriers and agree appropriate support to help your child feel safe and able to attend. Regular school attendance supports learning, friendships, routines and a sense of belonging. However, simply telling a distressed child not to worry is unlikely to resolve the underlying difficulty. Our approach is to work with families, understand the barriers and support students to attend successfully.

People you can talk to at school

You can speak to any member of staff you feel comfortable speaking to, any member of staff can be a trusted adult, but also remember, there are some members of staff who have special responsibilities for your welfare, like our Pastoral Team.

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People to talk to outside the academy

You might find you need to speak to someone at evenings, weekends and during holidays. We recommend the organisations below to our students.

Self-Care

Doing little things to look after your wellbeing can be really important. For example:

• getting enough sleep
• eating something you really like and even making something for yourself
• doing something you find relaxing, like listening to music or watching your favourite film
• doing something you enjoy, like a favourite hobby or spending time with people you love
• spending time in nature, like going for a walk or visiting a local park
• getting active by going for a run, bike ride or playing a sport you enjoy.