Middlewich High School to lead new emotional health project – Middlewich Guardian

MIDDLEWICH High School is one of six schools in east Cheshire to benefit from £100,000 of funding to support links with health services.

The Emotionally Healthy Schools Pilot, which is also led by the Middlewich school, aims to improve emotional and mental health in schools in the borough.

Middlewich High School, along with Ruskin High and Oakfield Lodge in Crewe, Eaton Bank Academy in Congleton, Macclesfield Academy and Poynton High, will be working alongside charities Visyon, Just Drop In, The Children’s Society and the Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Trust. 

Each school will have a dedicated project worker who will provide tailored support to teachers and pupils with the aim of sharing knowledge of the many services that can help.

According to Public Health England, in an average class of 30 15-year-old pupils, three could have emotional issues, 10 are likely to have witnessed a family breakdown, one could have experienced a family bereavement, and seven are likely to have been bullied.

Keith Simpson, head teacher of Middlewich High School, said: “As the lead school for this pilot, I am delighted that the partnership arrangements with the NHS have brought together lead professionals to develop best practice and make a difference to the lives of children and their families. We are recognised by our community and recently, once again by Ofsted as being ‘instrumental in improving the practice of other schools, for example in the promotion of pupils’ emotional well-being.’”

The project aims to give more information to those pupils who need support and pointing them in the right direction as to where to get help. 

The project team will work in partnership with the schools and parents to ensure that any changes for teachers and pupils are built into the existing school curriculum helping provide long term, sustainable and successful solutions.

Cllr Rachel Bailey, leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “The emotional health and wellbeing of children and young people is vitally important to both a good childhood and in influencing long term health into adulthood. Early help is critical, and schools play an important part in this early intervention.

“I am delighted that this project is underway and fully supports the schools in their endeavours. I look forward to seeing the results.”