The mental health of students is firmly on the agenda, but if teachers are to play a key role, they must also protect their own wellbeing, says Julian Stanley

The prime minister’s public recognition and commitment earlier this month to deliver better mental health services is welcome, if long overdue.

But aside from the fact that schools alone cannot solve this enormous issue, how can teachers be expected to adequately support children’s mental wellbeing when their own is under such pressure?

If secondary school staff are to successfully “lead by example”, an “oxygen mask” approach is surely what is needed to help stem this crisis.

As a leading charity supporting all who are working in the sector, Education Support Partnership is all too aware of the growing stresses and strains on the mental health and wellbeing of struggling secondary school teachers and school leaders.

Register now, read forever

Thank you for visiting SecEd and reading some of our content for professionals in secondary education. Register now for free to get unlimited access to all content.

What's included:

  • Unlimited access to news, best practice articles and podcast

  • New content and e-bulletins delivered straight to your inbox every Monday and Thursday

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here