Emotional Friendly Schools

 

Becoming an Emotionally Friendly School (EFS)

At our school, we believe that every child deserves to feel safe, happy, valued and supported. We understand that children’s emotional health and mental well-being are just as important as their academic learning, and we are committed to creating an environment where every child feels able to talk about their feelings and knows where to turn for help.

We are currently working towards achieving the Bronze Award to become an Emotionally Friendly School (EFS). This is an important step in our ongoing commitment to supporting the emotional health and well-being of our whole school community.

What is an Emotionally Friendly School?

An Emotionally Friendly School is one that recognises the importance of children’s emotional well-being and actively promotes positive mental health. It aims to create a supportive, understanding and inclusive environment where children feel safe to express their feelings, develop positive relationships and build the confidence and resilience they need to manage life’s challenges.

Working towards our EFS Bronze Award will help us to continue developing our understanding of children’s emotional needs, strengthen the support we offer and ensure that emotional well-being remains at the heart of school life.

There are four key focus areas:

1. Staff wellbeing and School Ethos

2. Classroom Practice

3. Assessing Children's Needs

4. Supporting Individual Children

 

Why is this important to us?

We know that children learn best when they feel safe, happy and emotionally supported. Sometimes, children may experience worries, friendship difficulties, changes at home or other challenges that can affect how they feel and behave. These feelings can sometimes be difficult for children to understand or explain.

As a school, we want every child to know that their feelings matter, it is okay to ask for help, and there will always be someone willing to listen.

By working towards becoming an Emotionally Friendly School, we aim to:

  • Promote positive mental health and emotional well-being for all children.
  • Help children recognise, understand and express their feelings.
  • Encourage children to talk openly about their worries and seek help when they need it.
  • Build confidence, resilience and positive relationships.
  • Ensure that children feel listened to, respected and supported.
  • Work in partnership with parents and carers to provide the best possible support for every child.

How can parents and carers help?

Parents and carers play a vital role in supporting children’s emotional health. You know your child best, and we value working together to ensure that every child receives the support they need.

If you are concerned about your child’s mental health or emotional well-being, please talk to us. You do not need to wait until a concern becomes serious before asking for help. Whether your child seems unusually worried, withdrawn, upset, anxious or is experiencing difficulties with friendships, behaviour or school life, we are here to listen and help.

You can speak to your child’s class teacher or any member of staff you feel comfortable approaching. All staff are here to listen, take your concerns seriously and help you identify the next steps. We also have designated EFS Champions in school who can offer additional help, advice and support around emotional well-being.

 

EFS champions

Kate Stokes (head teacher)

Mrs Simmons (deputy head/SENDCO/class teahcer)

Mrs Haslam (class teacher & senior mental health lead)

Mrs Holt (Class teacher)

Mrs Bamber (EYFS TA)

Miss Jervis (KS1 & KS2 HLTA)

Mrs Smith (office and welfare) 

 

If you are unsure who to speak to, please contact the school office, and we will help you find the right person.

We understand that talking about your child’s emotional health can sometimes feel difficult, but please be reassured that you will be met with care, understanding and support. By sharing concerns early and working together, we can help children feel understood and access the support they need.

Working together for happier, healthier children

Our journey towards the EFS Bronze Award is part of our commitment to making our school a place where every child feels they belong, every voice is heard and emotional well-being is valued.

Together, we can help our children develop the confidence to talk about their feelings, the resilience to face challenges and the knowledge that they are never alone.

Thank you for your continued support in helping us make our school an emotionally friendly place for everyone.