Pastoral Support

The children’s welfare in all areas is very important to us at St Matthew’s.

We would encourage all our children to discuss any issues of concern with their child’s classteacher as these are the adults the children are most familiar with. Parents/carers are encouraged to seek these members of staff if there is a problem which could impact on learning and well-being. The school leadership team are also available to discuss any issues of sensitivity.

Worry Monster and Worry Box

Every class has a Worry Monster where children can write down any concerns they might have and put it in the monster. The class teacher checks the Worry Monster regularly and will respond to any concerns raised.

The worry box is located outside Mrs Stolton’s Pastoral suite, children are encouraged to write down any concerns. These will be addressed by a member of staff.

Pastoral Support Mentor

Mrs Stolton is our Pastoral Support Mentor. Mrs Stolton works with both the parents and children to support children with interventions designed to support children who may be suffering from a loss/ bereavement, self-esteem issues, anger management, anxieties relating to a change in the home/ school situation, and lack of confidence to name a few. Mrs Stolton also works closely with our Safeguarding Team to support those children who may need additional support as requested by Social Services.

School Counsellor

St Matthew’s uses trained professionals from external providers to offer counselling sessions for children. The School’s Needs team will consider the children who they feel will benefit from counselling and then this is discussed with parents before the intervention starts.

Forest School

Children in St Matthew’s are able to reap the benefits of attending Forest School. We have a small forest area on site and access to a Forest School facility located in private woods in Langton Green village accessed via minibus for occasional use. These sessions are led by a highly skilled, fully trained, Forest School Teacher. As this is an outdoor learning experience we would request that all children come to school prepared in a warm tracksuit/ appropriate warm clothing, wellington boots and bring a waterproof jacket.

Family Liaison Officer

We are fortunate to be able support families and children with a FLO. She is available to speak to parents each morning on the gate should there be any issues at all which are of a concern. Her main role is to listen and support, suggesting appropriate avenues of support. Our FLO has supported families with a wide range of issues such as secondary school applications, behaviour at home, accessing local support services, applying for Free School Meals and attendance related concerns.