At St Therese’s RC Primary we understand that in order to attain successful outcomes for our pupils we need to forge a strong rapport and, positive relationships with parents and carers. We feel this approach is the most productive in children achieving their potential. We aim to do this with a focus on mutual respect and understanding from all stakeholders and with our Christian values at the heart of our interactions.
We believe that the term ‘family engagement’ should be applied to all aspects of family, including the home, at school and the wider community. We work closely within the community to find the best opportunities available for our children and their families.
Our designated Family Engagement worker meets with new parents and ensures that they are aware of the role within our school and how she can support them and their family whilst they share their educational journey with us.
The Family Engagement Worker is Teresa, and she will advocate on behalf of families, represent and support them at various Professional’s meetings and liaise closely with the schools ALNCo, in order to provide a holistic support model.
Teresa supports pupils with their wellbeing needs and offers a range of support options for our children. This can be through one to one sessions, check in sessions and support with out of school requirements based on individual circumstances. She also aims to support staff with their personal wellbeing goals.
We aim to ensure that whilst attending our school, all pupils access their learning in a safe and secure environment. This is reiterated regularly to pupils so they are familiar with whom they can approach if they feel they need to disclose sensitive information which will be treated in the strictest of confidence.
If you are concerned about your child, you are encouraged to approach a member of the team to discuss any worries so that support can be offered, or we can signpost you to another agency.
We promote multi-agency collaboration through linking with services throughout the Local Authority or with National charities.
At St Therese’s RC Primary School, we have a number of initiatives to support families with the cost-of-living crisis. We are beginning a non-means tested food bank on site for families to access as and when they need to. We also upcycle items of clothing and toys to further support families. We hold regular breakfast clubs for parents/carers to attend where they can access a hot drink and a meal whilst having the opportunity to socialise with other parents and staff, and we also have a weekly parent & toddler group for our youngest members of our community to enjoy.
The Family Engagement Worker supports parents / carers, school staff, and other agencies on various issues that may affect a child’s learning and wellbeing.
These can include:
• Punctuality and attendance
• Changes in behaviour
• Low self-esteem and confidence
• Settling in new children
• Transition to a new class, key stage, or another designated school
• Supporting parents or carers with routines, managing behaviour at home etc.
• A point of contact for parents and carers daily.
• Support for families can also include:
• Providing information and signposting to other services in the local area
• Liaising with a range of external services, agencies and schools
• Assistance in completing paperwork and forms e.g. additional learning needs, secondary school applications, housing and benefits applications etc
• Attendance at school and other agency meetings
• Advice and support in promoting positive behaviour at home and establishing routines
• Providing access to training and workshops in school
- Providing bespoke packages of support to support individual children’s wellbeing needs
- Organising and supporting engagement events for parents and carers to attend and enjoy with their children
Teresa works closely with the other wellbeing support staff in school to ensure our children have the best support offered to them at the right time. Should you wish to discuss anything with me you can contact me on 07974102687
Or email: Seymourt13@hwbcymru.net
Other members of the wellbeing team are;
Mrs Michelle Bamford – ELSA & Nurture
Mrs Lisa Baker – ELSA & Nurture
Mrs Krystle LLoyd – ELSA & Nurture
Ms Jodie Jackson – Forest Schools Practitioner