Pupils sitting together in a classroom, sharing and discussing a book

Vision Statement

At Willowfield Academy, we are committed to nurturing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where every pupil can thrive.

We prioritise emotional, social, and physical wellbeing, empowering pupils to build resilience, develop healthy relationships, and achieve their full potential.

Through personalised support, open communication, and a culture of care, we aim to cultivate a community that celebrates individuality and fosters lifelong wellbeing, equipping pupils with the tools to flourish both in and beyond school.

Wellness wheel diagram with social, intellectual, emotional, occupational, environmental, financial, spiritual and physical

What is Wellbeing?

Wellbeing encompasses a wide range of physical, emotional, mental, and social factors that contribute to a pupil’s overall quality of life. At Willowfield Academy we nurture the wellbeing of pupils across a range of different dimensions including physical, emotional, mental and social wellbeing.

Four pupils sitting in a school lounge area with chairs, a table and classroom display boards

We support pupils to maintain a healthy lifestyle, develop the ability to manage emotions, cope with stress, and maintain a positive outlook on life. Through quality relationships and social connections, pupils feel supported and valued within their community.

Wellbeing varies from person to person; we work to build relationships so that respond to individual needs as they present themselves.

Teacher leading a classroom discussion with pupils seated around tables with worksheets and learning resources

In school services

Drawing and Talking  

Drawing and Talking provides children with an opportunity to express their feelings and emotions on paper and take the time they need to talk about the things within their life that may be causing them some distress. ​ This program is about creating a space where pupils feel safe and about building a positive relationship, which in turns allows the therapeutic process to support children as they progress through three stages and hopefully find themselves in a place where they feel able to manage their emotions in a more positive way. 

Pupils and staff gardening in a school outdoor area with raised beds under a bright blue sky

Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA)

ELSA intervention can provide support for children with recognising, understanding and managing their emotions. Therapeutic stories and puppet play. Support with loss and bereavement, self-esteem, social skills, friendship issues, relationships, anxiety and worries, bullying, growth mindset and problem solving. ​ Relationships are key in helping children and young people to feel safe and nurtured. ​ ELSA is about creating a reflective space for the young person. ​ 

Pupil building a small model with colourful bricks at a classroom table

Lego Therapy

Lego therapy is a play-based piece of intervention which focuses on developing collaborative play skills. To help support children’s communication, language, social skills and shaping emotional and behavioural responses.  This therapeutic intervention delivers meaningful, child-centred and evidence-based provision where everyone understands, knows and follows their individual job roles to build upon the required skills.

School Counsellor  

At Willowfield Academy we strive to place the needs and wellbeing of pupils at the centre of all we do. This includes, among other things, a counselling service and dedicated therapeutic space which is available for pupils to access for either one-to-one therapy sessions, at moments of crisis, or simply for quiet space for those who need it during school or break times.  We are proud of our approach and work with staff to support their working relationship with pupils at every stage of their lives at Willowfield.

Additional Support for Children, Parents & Carers

Youtube Five more minutes – click here

Nottalone  is a dedicated site providing information and support for young people’s mental health across Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire County – click here

BeUNotts – Be U Notts is a free, accessible, and convenient mental health and emotional wellbeing support service for people between 0-25 years of age and their parent and carers – click here

ASKLION – An online directory for local services. – click here

Our Wellbeing Room

Wellbeing room with sofas, chairs, tables, a whiteboard and mental health display boards