There have been changes to the Ofsted common inspection framework, and these are centered on emotional wellbeing.
Additions to the framework include personal development, behaviour, welfare and mental health. More specifically the framework references the essential components of emotional wellbeing such as relationships, self-disciplined, self-confidence, self-efficacy, communication skills, positive mind-set and attitude.
Specifically the guidelines state:
In order for schools to gain good status pupils must ‘enjoy learning about how to stay healthy and about emotional and mental health, safe and positive relationships’.
To be outstanding schools must enable students to be able to ‘make informed choices about healthy eating, fitness and their emotional and mental wellbeing’.
The new framework recognises that it is important to continue to support individual students with specific behavioural and mental health needs but there is also a need to create a culture that fosters emotional wellbeing and resiliency within the school. Consequently, ‘good’ and ‘outstanding’ schools commit to helping students develop personal skills, employability skills and achieve academically.
To do this effectively schools are encouraged to raise awareness and provide a range of support that fosters emotional wellbeing within the educational environment. Creating and sustaining a culture that supports emotional wellbeing can be done by working creatively.
For Example:
This ultimately can help to create a culture that promotes and supports emotional and mental health needs. This is also known as ‘a whole school approach to mental health’.