12 March 2020

A Whole School/College Approach: What Does It Really Mean?

Introduction

‘A whole school approach to mental health’ (Also known as a ‘a mentally healthy environment’) has been a hot topic in the education sector (rightly so) but what struck me is that many people and organisations have a very different definition of the term. Also, I have not come across a definition of ‘A whole school approach to mental health’. There is information out there which talks about the benefits the approach will bring, and what practice may look like but no definition.

Something Missing

As a methodical professional it struck me that by not having a definition of the whole school approach to mental health it was impacting on our (wider community championing this approach) ability communicate and educate people about this approach and how it can be implemented. As a result, practice is varied nationally, and the term is loosely used, which can have devastating outcomes.

This definition has been informed by over 10 years of clinical experience and working within a variety of school settings. Innovating Minds has piloted and measured the impact this approach has in school settings. My practice has also been informed by Public Health England’s Recommendations, The Green Paper and Department of Education’s strategy. Ofsted and mental health also come hand in hand. There is a correlation between mental health and academic achievement. Innovating Minds has successfully been able to transform theory into practice and ensure evidence-based practice is delivered within school settings.

EduPod was created by pulling together all of the above to create the software that will enable all mental health leads to plan, manage and evaluate their journey to creating happy and mentally healthy environments for the whole school community. It enables schools to access professional mental health resources, action plans and input professionals at Innovating Minds at an affordable price.

The Definition

A ‘whole school/college approach to mental health’ is a culture that is built upon empathy, relationships and evidence-based practice. These practices are embedded within the curriculum, policies and procedures across the school. They are inclusive and flexible to support and respond to the school community’s mental health needs.

Dr Asha Patel, Clinical Psychologist & CEO at Innovating Minds (2020)

 

So, what does this mean?

Below explains the terms and key messages within the definition.

‘A Culture’ – This approach is the most effective when the school creates a culture that is nurturing, inclusive, relationship focused and empathic. The culture is so important because this helps to attract quality staff, sets the values and expectations and it will create a sustainable approach that will support future generations.

‘School Community’- This refers to the individuals the school comes in contact with. For example, students, caregivers and educational staff.

‘Evidence Based practice’ – It is very important that schools used updated evidence and research to inform their practice, especially when we are supporting the community’s mental health and using early intervention approaches. It is also crucial that schools measure the impact of their work to ensure credible interventions are being used.

‘These practices are embedded within the curriculum, policies and procedures across the school’ – A culture can effectively be formed when it penetrates through everything. Mental health practices cannot be done in isolation. It has to be integrated into the school system and the curriculum. This also brings together health and education.

‘Inclusive’ - Everyone has a mental health, and everyone’s needs will be different. Therefore, this approach is focused on creating inclusivity within the school setting. This model aims to build internal capacity so the school can support the individual within the school setting within the support from mental health professionals.

‘Flexible’ – There has to be an element of flexibility within the practices to ensure schools can meet the individual needs. This gives permission to educational staff and system to allow for flexibility within policies and procedures. This flexibility ensures that individuals mental health needs can be met alongside their educational needs.

‘Support and Respond’ -This approach comes from an early intervention and prevention model. The aim is to prevent mental health turning into mental ill health. It is also acknowledged that we cannot always prevent, and therefore the school needs to respond when a staff and/or student is experiencing mental health difficulties.

What’s next?

If you would like to find out how EduPod can support your school, please get in touch.

 

Get In Touch

Please do get in touch if you would like to find out more, we love to talk!