Validator report

22 June 2023

PWA-Morton Academy-CA2 6LB-22/Jun/2023

Areas for further development
Expand the number and roles of student wellbeing champions as per the final benchmark above. Consider how younger students can be involved as well.
Conduct more specific surveys to identify what physical activities students are taking apart in or would like – would more students enjoy non-competitive sport, for example? Encourage students to monitor and report on dietary and sleep habits in detail and link this to appropriate education.
Involve students directly in PSHE planning via focus groups, surveys etc. What would they like to learn about, how would they like sessions delivered and at what stage? Continue to develop cross-curricular links and ensure that provision is developmenta
Award term ref
Confirm the recommendation
1
Overall comments
The school has clearly taken a holistic role to supporting student wellbeing. They are considered how to raise awareness via the curricullum as well as how to provide a range of support for both students who just need to share cincerns or worries and those in need of more significant or long term help. The Wellbeing Lead is enthusiastic and knowledgeable and has ensured that students, staff and families are fully engaged with developments.
School ref
Validator benchmark comments
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
The school have seen a significant rise in referrals to support as a result of their work to raise awareness and reduce stigma around EWMH. Staff are more confident to make referrals themselves and students and are more likely to self-refer. The y7up service has been effective as a triage ensuring that students are referred on to the most effective support as necessary.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
An increase in both the range of provision and additional safe spaces has led to an increase in students accessing effective support. Student awareness of the support available and how to access it has also improved.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
The school’s review of PSHE provision led to additional cross-curricular links which has improved delivery (as noted in the school’s recent Ofsted report. There has also been an increase in visibility and confidence amongst minority (e.g. LGBTQ+) students.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
The school have developed a cross-curricular approach and made links between PE, PSHE and Science provision in order to reinforce key messages and this has resulted in increased levels of physical activity and improved dietary knowledge as shown by student surveys.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
As noted above, the school’s efforts, including via social media, to raise awareness about support available has led to a rise in self-referrals. Access to anonymous reporting has also been successful in increasing the numbers of students and parents seeking help. Signposting materials such as leaflets are popular with students who also report that concerns are acted on effectively.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
The development of a clear referral pathway has led to an increase in reports from a larger number of staff. The quality of initial referrals has also improved. Staff confidence to support students has increased. CPD provision is responsive to request from staff for support around particular issues – e.g. panic attacks.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Parents report that they find referral routes straightforward and appreciate the option to report anonymously as well. They like how the school shares information, especially via social media and areo positive about the support their children receive from y7up or the MHST.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Student wellbeing champion positions have proved popular and the school is looking to expand these and involve more students in a range of roles including buddying and mentoring as well as leading assemblies etc. Increased numbers of students are now involved in wellbeing related extra-curricular activities which are recognised via the school’s honours system.
Validator recommendation
I recommend that the school is accredited for this award
Validation confirm date
22/Jun/2023
Product attribute ref
Gold