Chapters consider a range of themes, from mentally healthy schools to attendance and academic pressure, to build the vision of a compassionate school where no child is left behind or excluded. Each topic is introduced through the voices and views of children, who reflect on their experiences and tell us what would make it better and create a sense of belonging for all. These themes are explored alongside key psychological theory, before accessible strategies and recommendations for change are introduced.
Centring the views of children and young people, this essential guide focuses on developing an education system fit for the workforce of the future, based on skills, humanity, compassion and citizenship. It will be valuable reading for all teachers, pastoral staff, educational leaders and educational psychologists.
Maddi Popoola is a service manager for the Mental Health Support Team in Nottingham City. She has been working in various roles within education since 2004, including mainstream primary, secondary and alternative provision settings. Maddi qualified as an Educational Psychologist (EP) in 2018 and is the co-founder of a mental health support website, www.NottaAlone.org.uk.
Sarah Sivers has worked as a Child, Community and Educational Psychologist for over 11 years and with children and young people with additional needs for over 20 years. She has engaged in pupil views research to explore children and young peoples’ views and experiences and to use what they have shared to generate discussions and create change.
Louise McDonagh has worked in a range of schools since 2006, including in a role as Vice Principal in an inner-city academy, with responsibility for safeguarding and behaviour. Louise has also been a member of a Mental Health Support Team, leading on whole school approaches to mental health and trauma informed approaches.