Support for Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH)

At St Barnabas, we recognise that some pupils may have additional social, emotional and mental health needs. We provide pastoral support and targeted interventions delivered by trained staff to promote wellbeing, resilience and positive relationships.

Drawing on Specialist Advice

Where additional expertise is needed, and following consultation with parents or carers, we may seek advice from external services such as the Communication and Autism Team (CAT) and the Educational Psychology Service (EP). We explain the reasons for any referral, obtain consent, and share relevant information in line with safeguarding and data protection procedures.

Curriculum and Whole-School Approach

All pupils take part in PSHE and collective worship, which develop knowledge and skills for healthy, independent lives. Teaching includes resilience and self-regulation strategies, help-seeking, online safety, bullying awareness, citizenship, healthy eating, physical activity and mental wellbeing.

Behaviour and Relationships

We promote positive behaviour through clear expectations, consistent routines and a restorative approach that focuses on repairing harm, rebuilding relationships and agreed next steps. We operate a zero-tolerance stance on bullying, racist abuse and other discriminatory behaviour. Further information is available in our Behaviour Policy, Anti-Bullying Policy and Safeguarding/Child Protection Policy.

Working in Partnership

Support is planned and reviewed through the Assess, Plan, Do, Review cycle. We collaborate with parents and carers, and we gather pupil input in ways suitable to each child’s communication profile. Provision is adapted where necessary to ensure they remain effective and proportionate.