Evolve Academy, a pioneering alternative provision school part of Consilium Academies, has been dedicated to making a significant impact during Children's Mental Health Week. With this year's theme being 'My Voice Matters,' the school has gone above and beyond to spotlight the critical work needed to support young people's mental health.

 

Established a decade ago by Place2Be, a leading children's mental health charity, Children's Mental Health Week runs from February 5 to 11 and aims to shine a light on the importance of young people’s mental wellbeing. Evolve Academy is a keen supporter, emphasising the significance of providing a platform for students, families, and staff to express themselves and address pressing mental health challenges.

 

One standout initiative led by Evolve Academy, which specifically caters for students suffering from poor mental health, is the implementation of Community Mental Health Days that take place every term. These community gatherings offer a safe space for students, their families, and staff to come together as one to talk openly about mental health concerns.

 

Robert Bell, Headteacher at Evolve Academy, said: “Our young people come to us with very poor attendance rates having effectively dropped out of mainstream education as they’ve been unable to regulate their emotions and aren’t able to cope with the challenges of school life.”

 

Commenting on the Community Mental Health Days initiative, he said: “It is not an exaggeration to say that these community days can be life changing for the families we serve and this week’s session to mark Children’s Health Week was no different.

 

“Having parents in for the whole day to learn about mental wellbeing alongside their children and with the staff as one complete unit is incredibly powerful. Parents also get time to talk to each other and address their own worries and concerns. There’s a palpable sense of togetherness and unity, where everyone’s voice matters and no one feels isolated. We’re all in it together learning to heal, learn and grow.

 

“Our commitment to prioritising children's mental health extends beyond the classroom to support our students’ parents and carers. Through innovative approaches like Community Mental Health Days we create a supportive community where everyone's voice is heard.

 

“As Children's Mental Health Week draws to a close, Evolve Academy stands firm in its dedication to championing mental wellbeing.”

 

Evolve Academy aims to serve as a beacon of support for the entire community, offering Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) sessions, stress management workshops, and regular training sessions throughout the academic year.