John Kyrle High School will be supporting Mental Health Awareness week during the first week of February, 5th-11th.

As a school John Kyrle take the wellbeing of both students and staff very seriously and they are looking to further embed and add to the provision that they currently offer, and raise awareness of where help is available, particularly within the school, but also nationally.

They are committed to ensuring any support is in place and provided to those who need it, recognise their duty of care to all who study and work in the school.

Headteacher Nigel Griffiths, told the Ross Gazette that it is part of maintaining and implementing their school motto “Happy, Healthy, Successful” with a focus on students being themselves. Nigel Griffiths said that he will be running assemblies for students during the week, focusing on wellbeing.

The designated senior lead for wellbeing is Trixie Clarke, who works alongside Julie Markey, the wellbeing trustee. They will be overseeing the whole school approach, which will be reflected in policies, curriculum and pastoral support.

Rose Brennan, a year 11 student who has recently been appointed as a wellbeing ambassador for Herefordshire, will be meeting with the board of trustees during Mental Health Awareness week to discuss her new role and to raise further awareness.

She also attends fortnightly meetings with other ambassadors and helps with the recruitment process for companies such as the CLD Trust.

Students will be encouraged to speak to anyone that they feel comfortable talking to, whether this is a favourite teacher, or even someone who works in the school in the canteen or as a cleaner. They will also be encouraged to speak on behalf of friends that they feel may need support.

There will also be a focus on staff wellbeing, and where they can go if they are in need, whether it is their line manager, or directly to Headteacher Nigel Griffiths.

They will also focus on maintaining this support, and checking in with students and staff to ensure their happiness within the school.

It is envisaged that such a focus will continue to support health relationships and levels of resilience, particularly in young people at JKHS.