2021/2022
When a public figure dies, the news can elicit a range of emotions. There may be a deep sense of loss especially if they admired the Queen. Some children will feel these feelings deeply or they may be indifferent depending on their view about the Queen. It is important to be respectful and understand that everyone grieves differently.
If children have experienced death it may bring feelings of grief to the surface again. The important thing to remember is that there is no right or wrong response and we should respect that everyone will feel differently. It is likely that there will be a sense of sadness and for some children they will find it difficult to understand that people feel sad when she was not known personally.
Death and therefore bereavement is a typical/normal human experience and whilst it is a difficult experience, the vast majority of children and young people will recover. Allow them time to celebrate her they may want to commemorate her passing.
Adults in schools should be available to listen to children and young people. Empathic listening and understanding and being available to respond to children’s questions will be what the majority of children and young people will need. By acknowledging and normalising their experiences and reactions the adults will help them to restore feelings of safety and security.
Tips for supporting children and young people
- Use words they can understand and are age appropriate.
- Show children how you are feeling. This is helpful to model and “normalise” the feelings they may be experiencing.
- Give them the opportunity to ask questions. It’s ok to do this is in a group so they know how others are feeling. Older children will want and be able to handle more information. Answer questions simply and honestly. If you don’t know the answer, say so.
- Use pictures and storybooks. These are particularly helpful for younger children or those with special educational needs. A list of books and resources can be found in the “Critical Incident and Bereavement Management guidance for schools” Educational Psychology Service (EPS) | Dorset Nexus
- Tell them that the reactions they are having are normal.
- Accept there may be changes in behaviour or personality. This is typical and they will return to their usual selves in time.
- Help them to understand the relationship between their feelings and the loss. Help them find safe ways to express their feelings e.g. by drawing, taking exercise or talking.
- If you notice a change in a child or young person pay extra attention, spend extra time with them, be more nurturing and comforting.
Re: Height and weight checks of reception and year 6 children as part of the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP)
The National Child Measurement Programme
Across England over 99% (approx.17,000) of eligible schools take part in the NCMP each year. This provides valuable information which is used to plan for and invest in key services to prevent and manage overweight and obesity. Additionally, our service providers, Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust (DHC) will share feedback and follow up support to parents and carers of children with underweight and very overweight results to engage them with the programme and the support it can offer to the whole family.
The importance of healthy weight in children
A child’s weight status affects their health and wellbeing. Growing healthily and maintaining a healthy weight is important not only for a child’s physical, social and mental wellbeing but also for their capacity to do well at school.[1],[2] Maintained schools have a statutory duty to promote the wellbeing of pupils in carrying out their functions.[3] The new statutory health education curriculum[4] can support schools with teaching pupils how to make good decisions about their own health and wellbeing.[5],[6]
- NCMP_pre-measurement_School_height_and_weight_measurements.pdf
- 09 21 DORSET_PreMeasure Parents 202122 v01.pdf
Football - After School Club
We are pleased to be able to tell you that Premier Sports will be running an after school football coaching club during the term each week on a Monday for Years 2, 3 and 4.
If you would like to join the club please complete the slip attached to the letter below or sign on through School Comms.
Please see the details of the club below;
Day: Monday
Time: 3.15pm – 4.15pm
Cost: £16.00 for 4 sessions
Open to: Pupils in years 2, 3 and 4