Students with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs may struggle with emotional regulation, behaviour, social interactions, and mental well-being. These challenges can affect their ability to focus, form relationships, and engage with learning. SEMH needs often stem from conditions such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, and may lead to reduced academic performance and attendance. Supportive strategies, such as fostering a nurturing environment, teaching coping skills, and providing individualised support, are essential to help these students overcome barriers, build resilience, and succeed in school.

We provide staff with a range of recommended strategies, including:

• Create a safe and nurturing environment: Foster a classroom culture of respect, empathy, and inclusivity.
• Build positive relationships: Develop trust through consistent, caring interactions with the student.
• Implement predictable routines: Provide structure to reduce anxiety and promote stability.
• Use positive reinforcement: Recognise and reward effort and progress to boost self-esteem.
• Provide clear and consistent expectations: Set boundaries and communicate them effectively to avoid confusion.
• Incorporate movement breaks: Allow opportunities for physical activity to help students release energy and refocus.
• Promote social skills development: Include activities that build teamwork, empathy, and communication.
• Use visual supports: Offer visual schedules, prompts, or cues to aid understanding and reduce overwhelm.
• Offer check-ins: Check in with students to address specific challenges.
• Monitor progress and adjust plans: Regularly review strategies and adapt them based on the student’s evolving needs.

Our Learning Support team also teach students regulation skills through a range of interventions, empowering them to navigate challenges and achieve greater independence.

Self-regulation skills are critical for future success in adulthood, enabling individuals to manage personal, academic, and professional responsibilities effectively.

By teaching regulation skills, we provide students with tools for classroom success and a foundation for lifelong emotional and social competence.

If you would like to learn more, there are courses available via CAMHS https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMPn3gTEh5Q and Barnardo’s https://www.barnardos.org.uk/.