DIXONS Marchbank Primary is one of the first schools in Bradford to receive a prestigious Schools Mental Health Gold Award

Having successfully achieved the Silver award last year, the school worked towards the top award, despite the COVID-19 pandemic. The award means that quality mental health provision becomes a school priority for both students, staff and its community. The school has also supported others throughout the district and the world with virtual visits, mentoring and coaching.

The Mental Health Award Lead, Milly Lynch, met with the Hong Kong Education Board to share good practice as well as joining local and national mental health focus groups, in collaboration with the NHS and leading mental health charities.

Vice Principal Mrs Lynch said: “The award is a prestigious achievement for the whole school community and we are very proud of our success.

"Good mental health is fundamental in everyday life and this is no different within a school setting.

"Our approach is now embedded within our school culture and this has been something that we have strived to achieve through collaboration with all stakeholders and a relentless pursuit of mental health at the heart of all we do."

While Principal Helen Haunch said: “The current pandemic has further highlighted the importance of good mental health and our role in providing support to our community.

"Our general support for families has been amazing and the more focused approaches needed by some parents who have struggled with other issues has been hugely beneficial.

"This has been a big team effort – amongst others, we have used our Parent Involvement Officer, Mentors, SENDCO and safeguarding team. I’m grateful to all the staff who are so committed to making Dixons Marchbank a better place to learn and work.”