- STEM4’s first Conference for School Leaders brought together a range of educational professionals from a variety of schools representing both the State and Independent sectors.
- Delegates heard from three keynote speakers (right) who each struck a chord with their audience, stimulating discussion and questions in a fairly tightly packed programme.
- Each speaker acknowledged that mental health issues have increased significantly amongst young people and that some local services are struggling to cope with the number of referrals. It is therefore more important than ever that schools are able to recognise problems early and to be innovative and creative in their response.
- Young people need to be able to talk about who and what they are, as high levels of resilience are asked of them in the modern world. Activities and interests, positive peer relationships and emotional resilience can be ‘protective’ for teenagers.
- Openness about mental health issues in schools is an important factor in their success at managing problems when they arise.
- Delegates were given copies of more detailed information and guidance from the speakers in the field of mental health policy and practice in their Conference pack, on a memory stick. It is hoped that this information will inform decisions about individual school strategies.
- In addition, a ‘STEM4 Standard’ (for the management of mental health issues) was created, covering the areas:
- How students are monitored
- Who has responsibility
- Action framework
- Time frame
- Training