Key Points
Children with SEMH needs may experience:
- Anxiety, low mood, or emotional regulation difficulties
- Challenges with forming relationships
- Difficulty managing their behaviour or adapting to change
- Conditions such as ADHD, attachment difficulties, or other mental health concerns
How We Support This at The Flourish Federation:
- A whole-school focus on positive relationships and emotional wellbeing
- The Hub – a dedicated nurture space for children needing a quieter environment
- Access to ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistants) and 1:1 mentoring
- Clear behaviour support strategies, tailored to individual needs
- Strong links with external support services such as CAMHS, Early Help, and Educational Psychologists
Children with Social, Emotional & Mental Health (SEMH) needs may experience difficulties in managing their emotions, forming positive relationships, or regulating their behaviour. These challenges can impact their ability to engage in learning, build friendships, and feel secure in a school environment.
SEMH needs can present in many ways, including:
- Anxiety or low mood – affecting confidence, participation, and overall wellbeing
- Emotional regulation difficulties – struggling to manage frustration, anger, or disappointment
- Social interaction challenges – difficulties with making and maintaining friendships
- Attachment difficulties – finding it hard to trust adults or seek appropriate support
- Behavioural difficulties – struggling to follow expectations due to underlying emotional needs
- Attention and impulsivity issues – linked to conditions such as ADHD
At The Flourish Federation, we recognise that behaviour is a form of communication. Our approach focuses on understanding the underlying needs behind a child's actions and providing the right support to help them feel safe, valued, and understood. This is a key factor in how we strive to manage behaviour.
Some of the ways in which we support this at The Flourish Federation:
- A Whole-School Focus on Wellbeing – We create a nurturing environment where children feel supported, promoting positive mental health through PSHE/RSE, mindfulness activities, and the school environment. Our Wellbeing Council and vibrant Young Carers group further support this.
- The Hub/Nurture Lunch – Dedicated Nurture Spaces – Some children benefit from a smaller, quieter environment where they can regulate emotions, talk through worries, or engage in structured social play. Access is by invitation to ensure targeted support.
- Self-Regulation Strategies – Children are taught how to identify their emotions, understand triggers, and develop coping strategies for different situations
- Supportive Playground Zoning – Our structured playground systems allows children to choose different play areasthat suit their needs, whether they want active play, quiet reflection, or creative engagement.
- Calm Spaces & Sensory Support – Some children benefit from quiet zones or sensory tools to help manage feelings of overwhelm.
- Strong Links with External Services – We work closely with CAMHS (Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services), Early Help, and Educational Psychologists to provide additional support where needed.
- Close Communication with Families – We understand that SEMH needs do not stop at the school gate, and we work in partnership with parents to ensure consistency in support.