WELLBE ING
respectful. Everyone in a school or college, from the principal to the newest-qualified teacher, needs to be demonstrably considerate in their behaviour, words and attitudes, to each other as well as pupils (students’ antennae are finely attuned to hypocrisy – and they’ll be instantly aware of those who aren’t). The aim is to make it easier for pupils to come forward, know that they’ll be heard, and feel confident action will be taken. Other recommendations include spelling out what unacceptable behaviour looks like, making clear it won’t be tolerated and enforcing this consistently, with sanctions where needed. While some of these areas are already included in inspections, they are now under greater scrutiny. Schools are being asked by inspectors to show how they record and analyse this behaviour. Like any other illnesses, emotional and wellbeing issues need to be identified as early as possible, then treated. Long-term, schools point out, we’ll know the focus on pastoral care is working when more pupils come forward to get the help they need. Rather than signalling an escalating issue, it should demonstrate that the stigma around mental health is finally fading – and about time, too.
58 SPR ING / SUMMER 2022
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