PWA-St Cecilias RC High School-PR3 2XA-26/Feb/2025

St Cecilia’s High School has strengthened its approach to wellbeing through a clear vision statement and the formation of a wellbeing group. This has led to impactful campaigns promoting awareness and reducing stigma around mental health. The wellbeing ambassadors, trained externally, have played a key role in driving initiatives, supporting peers, and shaping a culture where mental and physical health are prioritised both in and out of school.

The nurture provision at St Cecilia’s High School has had a significant impact, offering small-group support with additional adults in the classroom. Targeted mental health workshops and one-to-one interventions with Compass Bloom have enhanced emotional wellbeing. Sensory circuits and morning sessions help students self-regulate. Student feedback indicates they feel informed and empowered about mental health, communicating more openly and confidently as a result.

St Cecilia’s High School promotes emotional health and wellbeing across the curriculum through mindfulness, creative arts, and an adapted PSHE scheme. Weekly mindfulness sessions and assemblies help students feel calm and prepared for the day. The creative arts club supports self-expression and engagement, with events like a neurodiversity competition raising awareness. The PSHE curriculum now includes key wellbeing dates, embedding emotional health discussions throughout the year.

St Cecilia’s High School promotes physical health and wellbeing through student-led initiatives, extracurricular clubs, and curriculum integration. The student council successfully advocated for healthier canteen options. The cycle-to-school challenge has led to a long-term increase in students cycling. Staff and students engaged in the event, achieving top rankings in Lancashire. Sleep hygiene sessions have improved student awareness of rest, and themed clubs further support physical health across the school.

Students at St Cecilia’s High School feel safe and supported, with clear pathways to seek help. They can access external services like Kooth and Compass Bloom or speak to trained mental health ambassadors. Anti-bullying ambassadors provide peer support, ensuring students know who to turn to. Anti-Bullying Week has raised awareness of 'bullying versus banter', encouraging students to reflect on their actions and seek help when needed.

St Cecilia’s High School prioritises CPD and staff development through training opportunities for all staff. Senior mental health lead sessions provide best practices and external insights, while CPD has improved staff confidence in supporting student wellbeing. A structured referral system ensures staff can utilise colleagues' expertise and refer students for further support. Key resources and procedures are easily accessible on all school computers and outlined in the staff handbook.

St Cecilia’s High School has strengthened support for parents through regular communication and increased transparency. The revamped mental health and wellbeing website provides accessible resources for students and families. Parents receive updates on key events and topics covered in school, fostering engagement. Pastoral staff training in EHA/TAF meetings has expanded capacity to support vulnerable students, improving relationships between school and home to ensure better overall wellbeing support.

Student leadership at St Cecilia’s High School has empowered pupils, boosting confidence and engagement. Ambassador groups have led wellbeing initiatives and assemblies, while student council meetings now prioritise mental health. Pupil feedback is actively considered, fostering a sense of ownership. Celebration assemblies and rewards trips recognise achievements, reinforcing positive behaviour. These initiatives have strengthened student voice, leadership skills, and overall wellbeing across the school.