We want everyone connected to PSJ to feel supported and valued - in order to create a safe and supportive culture where Wellbeing is a priority.

We adopt a holistic, "whole-school approach" to wellbeing, recognising that the mental health of pupils, staff, and parents is deeply interconnected. We pride ourselves on providing w elcoming and safe environment that enables our pupils to learn and flourish.

For pupils, this support is embedded in the curriculum through PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) education, which builds emotional literacy and resilience, alongside targeted pastoral care from internal and external staff who provide safe spaces for regulation and a environment where individual needs are met. 

Where possible, we extend this care to parents and guardians by acting as a community hub; working with and alongside our Family Support Workers and other relevant external professionals to bridge the gap between home and school.

Alongside our curriculum offer for wellbeing and Health we hold events such as 'Wellbeing Days' where children have access to a range of activities such as:

• Yoga sessions

• How exercise improves mood

• Mini circuits

• Relaxation breathing strategies and Box breathing techniques

Look out for more information and updates about what we will be doing this academic year!

PSJ will be dedicating curriculum time to Children's Mental Health week on Tuesday February 10th. 

The theme ‘this is my place’ will be the focus and activities will be based on themes around children's mental health and wellbeing, focusing on the importance of belonging for children's well-being. The main focus of the week is for Schools, families, and communities to take part in events in order to help children feel safe, welcomed, and valued, exploring themes of connection and inclusion through kindness and supportive environments. 

During the day children will access sessions such as:

• Mini circuits - exercise

• Box Breathing: This Is My Space  - simple breathing techniques

• Boxing - Pad work techniques and exercise

• Family Challenges - after school

• Oral Health awareness - Dental Nurse Presentation

• Looking after our safety and wellbeing whilst online

• Mindful movement - stretch, balance and breathing

On the day, children will create their own personal box (provided). To make the activity personal and meaningful, children will decorate their box using pictures or drawings of things that are important to them, such as:

• Family members

• Pets

• Favourite sports

• Hobbies (e.g. music, art, dancing, reading)

• Calm colours or patterns

• Anything else that is appropriate and personal to your child

Finally, we are inviting family members to join us after school (see the infographic here) where they are invited to take part in challenges alongside their children/relatives. 

We understand the importance of educating our pupils about oral health and we include oral health education and practice into our curriculum as well as taking part in the Dental examination of 5 year old schoolchildren in reception and year 1 as part of the National Dental Epidemiology Programme.

The DfE launched a National programme that is rolled out for 3 to 5 year olds in early years settings - including nurseries and primary schools - in most deprived areas of England. The Government also agrees ground-breaking partnership with Colgate which will see more than 23 million toothbrushes and toothpastes donated to support the programme. The programme is latest step in government’s Plan for Change to give children the best start in life and prevent ill health

Key Facts & Figures

• Prevalence: Over 20% of 5-year-olds in England have tooth decay.

• Hospital Admissions: Tooth decay is a leading reason for children aged 5-9 to be admitted to hospital.

• Causes: "Free sugars" (added to food/drinks by manufacturers, cooks, or consumers) and sugary drinks are major culprits.

• Link to Health: Poor oral health is linked to chronic conditions like diabetes and lung infections. 

Top Tips for Parents

• Brush Early & Often: Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears, twice a day (especially before bed) for two minutes.

• Use Fluoride Toothpaste: Use 1000-1500 ppm fluoride toothpaste; a smear for under-3s, a pea-sized amount for over-3s.

• Spit, Don't Rinse: After brushing, encourage spitting out excess toothpaste but not rinsing with water, to keep fluoride on teeth.

• Limit Sugary Foods & Drinks: Avoid fizzy drinks, squash, and sugary snacks; have sugary treats with meals, not throughout the day.

• Visit the Dentist: First dental visit should be by the first birthday. Visits help get your child used to the environment and check for issues.

• Supervise & Assist: Help brush until at least age 7, ensuring thorough cleaning, say Henry.org and the NHS. 

For Babies & Toddlers

• Introduce Free-Flow Cups: Transition away from bottles for sugary drinks to reduce decay risk.

• Fluoride Varnish: From age 3, children can get protective fluoride varnish at the dentist, more often if high-risk. 

Supporting Parents with children who are SEN:A Parents’ Guide to oral health and dental care for children with a learning disability, autism or both 

Resources

Childrens Toothbrushing chart for home here

Hey Duggee Song here