Dec 23, 2021, Independent Education Today: Dame Allan’s School invests in wellbeing centre https://ie-today.co.uk/news/dame-allans-school-invests-in-wellbeing-centre/
NE England
In response to more pupils requiring access to mental health support, an independent school in Newcastle has invested “significantly” in a new wellbeing centre.
‘The Snug’ has been in use at Dame Allan’s School since the October half term and was supported by donations.
Located on its senior school site in Fenham, the wellbeing centre houses support services operating outside the curriculum, including psychotherapy, counselling, learning support and special education needs (SEN)….
“Times continue to change, and over recent years we have seen an increase in the number of children accessing support, and a more complex array of needs….
“This isn’t isolated, it’s happening globally, and we know our students need our support. They need a place they feel safe – a positive space that is an important part of the schools, with no stigma attached.”
The Snug includes a counselling area, chaplain’s room and prayer space, SEN office and soft-seating area.
Dame Allan’s has four mental health professionals, one of whom is a child and adolescent psychotherapist – though they are currently recruiting for another. They also have teachers who are trained in mental health first aid….
