Create a safe environment for pupils and staff
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considering the school or college environment
Context
Schools and colleges should be safe environments for pupils and staff, and should be places that promote respect and diversity. When thinking about safety in your setting, consider emotional safety alongside physical safety.
We know from Headstart research that improving young people’s access to supportive relationships in schools can help to support their wellbeing. When a child or young person feels safe and supported, they are more likely to be able to engage in their learning, manage their emotions and ask for support when they need it.
Considering the physical environment in your school or college
When it comes to creating a safe environment for pupils and staff within your school or college setting, you should consider:
designating a quiet corner of the classroom that is removed from classroom activity. Make self-care activities available for pupils to do in this space
designating a wellbeing room for staff that is separate from the staff room. Encourage staff to donate self-care items or books for colleagues to use in this space
designating a time-out area for pupils outside the classroom to provide space to decompress and reflect – a wellbeing space as an alternative to an isolation room
the physical boundaries of where school/college spaces end, and how these boundaries are staffed to encourage a welcoming environment and promote safety
making sure that all signage around the school or college is clear and accessible. Clearly signpost areas where staff and pupils can go for additional support and advice
creating processes for new pupils, families and staff to familiarise themselves with their school/college environment. This is particularly important at key transition points, like the beginning of secondary school or further education.
Resources
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My self-care plan: primary
This self-care plan walks primary-aged children through a series of steps, helping them create a simple self-care plan that works for them.
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My self-care plan: secondary and FE
A plan which helps young people identify activities that they can use to support their mental health.
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Teaching curriculum topics linked to racism and handling racist world events
A lesson planning guide for teaching a curriculum topic that is linked to race and racism, or for when a potentially traumatic racist incident occurs in the wider world.
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Classroom wellbeing toolkit
A toolkit for secondary school staff, sharing practical steps to promote and support mental health through everyday interactions with students.
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Moving up! The transition to secondary school
This animation and accompanying teacher toolkit is aimed at supporting pupils who have recently started Year 7, or are due to start soon.
Creating a safe environment in schools and colleges
Hannah Woods, Head of Service for the Schools and Colleges Early Support Service at Anna Freud, looks at the importance of creating a safe environment in schools and colleges and practical ways that staff can help students feel safe.