Health and Wellbeing

Incels: Safeguarding implications for primary schools

We must not assume that the incel phenomenon only has implications for secondary safeguarding practice – primary schools must be alert too. Elizabeth Rose considers how we can respond to this new and rapidly emerging threat, offering practical advice and reassurance



One-to-one tutoring: Dos & don’ts

Many schools are implementing small group or one-to-one tutoring programmes as part of their Covid recovery work. This article asks tutors at the Kemnal Academies Trust for their dos and don’ts of effective tutoring provision


Safeguarding: Spotting the signs of domestic abuse

Sadly, some children returning to school after Christmas will have been victims of domestic abuse. Elizabeth Rose considers what this could look like, the signs and symptoms staff might see and practical ways to respond


Attendance: Where do primary schools stand?

Managing attendance has been one of the trickiest issues of the pandemic as schools struggle to balance the health concerns of a nation with the need to educate our children. What problems do we still face and what lies ahead?




Refocusing on Prevent: Five actions to take now

It feels like work on the Prevent Duty has gone quiet during the pandemic. Justin Reilly says now is the right time for schools to rejuvenate their focus on Prevent and offers five actions we can take


Anti-Bullying: How can we teach kindness?

What has been the impact of lockdowns, self-isolation and remote learning for our pupils? Julaan Govier and Gemma Hennessey noticed less tolerance, patience and willingness to collaborate. So, they set about teaching their pupils to ‘be kind’...





The chronicles of a therapeutic classroom: Makeover day!

This year, childhood trauma expert Shahana Knight is working to transform a year 3 classroom into the ultimate therapeutic space. This diary chronicles the project. This time, work begins on transforming the physical classroom environment...




How would you respond? Dealing with pupils who can’t settle

In her articles this year, Shahana Knight spotlights common behaviours or classroom scenarios, looking at why they might occur and how we can respond therapeutically. This time, she looks at the pupil who is unable to settle and is distracting others...


Taking a step back from burn-out...

Burn-out is not inevitable. As a school leader, how do you take care of yourself? Frances Robertson urges you to avoid burn-out by making time to reflect and step back from the chaos...



Animal therapy: Down on the school farm

From lambs to donkeys to pigs, the animals at York House School are helping pupils to adopt and model positive behaviour. Head Jon Gray explains why all schools should consider ‘animal therapy’





A six-step guide for new mental health leads

The emerging role of designated or senior mental health lead in schools has become even more vital in light of the impact of the pandemic. Wellbeing expert Kelly Hannaghan discusses effective practice for those taking on this new position and six steps for success


The chronicles of a therapeutic classroom: He said yes!

This year, childhood trauma expert Shahana Knight is working with a primary school to transform one of its year 3 classrooms into the ultimate therapeutic classroom. This monthly diary will chronicle the project, the ups and downs, and the lessons learned


Self-care isn’t selfish: How to look after yourself

Looking after yourself is not selfish – in fact it is a vital part of being able to perform at your best as a teacher or school leader. As a new school year begins, Sophie Howells reminds us all to prioritise self-care

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