Student Care
At Downend School, we recognise how important it is that all students feel happy and safe in school and that they have a strong sense of belonging and of being valued.
All students are cared for through the year teams - most notably by their tutor who they will see each morning. Over the course of the year, events and activities will run that are additional to the regular curiculum. Many of these provide opportunities to enhance this sense of belonging.
Many students receive additional support from our Student Support team or within our Pupil Inclusion Centre (PIC). Both of these are led by Mrs Pearce, our Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo).
Two Learning Mentors are available to meet with students on a one-to-one or group basis. They can help students overcome barriers to learning.
The Connexions service have a high profile in the school, guiding 14-19 year olds through the difficult choices they face that influence their future.
We have a strong and proactive relationship with a wide range of other agencies including the Youth Service, Education Welfare Service, Health Services, Safer South Glos., Community Police, Drug Action Team (DAT), Support Against Racist Incidents (SARI) and Social Services. Through these relationships, we can further strengthen the care we can provide for our students.
Learning Mentors
The role of the Learning Mentor is to support, guide and encourage any student experiencing emotional, behavioural or academic issues, with an aim of removing barriers to learning.
We work with students on a one-one basis or as part of small groups, with an aim of helping each student to develop the skills needed to cope with a wide range of issues and situations.
Meetings offer students a confidential space (within Child Protection boundaries) to discuss their feelings and opinions and provide them with the opportunity to find their own way of dealing with situations.
Examples of support offered:
- Information on local support services
- Bereavement
- Self-esteem
- Friendships
- Assertive behaviour
- Managing emotions effectively
- Issues outside of school
- Behaviour management
We work closely with YC’s and teaching staff to ensure the school is meeting each students’ needs. We also work closely with parents and any outside agencies who may also be working with students.
Students are able to self-refer, as well as being referred by YC’s. Sessions take place over an agreed number of weeks following a tailored programme of support. All meetings are appointment only.
