We are very proud to be a “School of Sanctuary” in Liverpool for a second time. Watch the video above, written by the children, to find out some of the things that make our school special.

Being a School of Sanctuary means we have been recognised for providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming place for everyone, including anyone seeking sanctuary. This could be people whose lives were in danger in their own country, who have troubles at home or are just looking for a space of safety.

Our ambition is to help our children and their families, staff and the community to understand what it means to be seeking sanctuary and to extend a warm welcome to everyone as equal, valued members of our school community.

We always welcome any suggestions or ideas parents may have to support this. Please speak to Head Teacher Mr. Horne or family Link Worker Mrs J Ireland.

Pupil Wellbeing

 

Here at Smithdown, we recognise that children’s physical, mental and emotional health is key both to their academic success and their future levels of life satisfaction. It is a golden thread that runs through all we do. Below is a sample of some of the things we do at Smithdown to ensure our children are able to grow and flourish into amazing citizens of the future.

• An exciting and engaging curriculum.
• A culture of support that runs throughout the school.
• We recognise and celebrate all achievements.
• We provide access to playtherapy in our specialist therapy room.
• ROAR.
• We have a trained counsellor on staff to support children and parents/carers.
• Child massage sessions are delivered by a trained staff member.
• The Bag of Worries enables children to access support.
• Think Yourself Great sessions.
• Assemblies (healthy eating, hygiene, strangers, kindness, being a friend etc.)
• Visitors to school ( e.g. non-binary author; Gangman – get away, get safe; Police – fireworks/strangers, Bullybusters; road safety-Slow Down for Bobby; COGs-mental health).
• Calm breakout spaces.
• Subsidised breakfast club.
• Bagels available for every pupil when they come into school

Parental Wellbeing

Support for families – family learning, ESOL, vocational training, curriculum sessions, bespoke support with housing and benefits, bespoke support with attendance and punctuality, open door policy for concerns, close links with school health/social services/family support

During Mental Health Awareness Week we held a Zoom meeting for our parents. Click here to view the presentation.

Click here to view the presentation in Arabic.

 

Suggested Websites for Wellbeing Activities

The Daily Mile at Home | The Daily Mile UK

Find help – for parents (youngminds.org.uk)

Talking to children about feelings – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

MPC_03_04 Building Confidence And Resilience | MPC_03_04 Building Co here.nfidence And Resilience (mindedforfamilies.org.uk)

10 Tips For Raising Resilient Kids (psychcentral.com)

Suggested Activities to Try at Home

If you’re looking for activities to support your children’s wellbeing, try some of the ideas listed here.

These activities encourage children to think about their achievements, talents, relationships, diet, sleep and activity, as well as the world and people around them!

School Health

Please follow this link to access information about how the school nurse team can support you and your family.

https://www.merseycare.nhs.uk/our-services/liverpool/school-health-service/primary-school-health