Ballymena Integrated Nursery School receives official recognition from NHS emotional health experts, Togetherness.
Togetherness whole school training provides staff training, educational resources and parent groups as part of a whole school approach to nurturing emotional wellbeing and prioritising mental health.
The school accreditation scheme recognises schools committed to embedding the Solihull Approach model and delivering positive change for the whole community. Three tiers of awards recognise a school’s work, with the gold award considered the highest achievement and exemplary practice.
Ballymena Integrated Nursery School is recognised for its outstanding commitment to nurturing wellbeing across its community. The team celebrates the Solihull Approach model in their work every day. The gold award highlights:
- Foundation level staff training offered to all staff (teaching, leadership, assistants and administrators)
- Reflective supervision training and timetabled coaching sessions to support staff wellbeing
- Advanced training for specialist knowledge in trauma and attachment
- Parent/Carer groups
- Integration of approach into pupil behaviour support plans
Dr Hazel Douglas MBE, Clinical Psychologist, Child Psychotherapist and Togetherness Director, said:
“We are thrilled to see the difference understanding and embracing the Solihull Approach model is making for the families of Ballymena Integrated Nursery School. Using the Solihull Approach model in schools is about supporting a culture that promotes emotional wellbeing across the whole community, recognising the important relationships and experiences that shape the foundations of mental health for a lifetime. Ballymena Integrated Nursery staff hold each child in mind to support their emotional development, providing the right scaffolding to teach their children the skills to regulate themselves in a healthy way.”
Katy Lynas Craig, Principal, said:
“At Ballymena Integrated Nursery School, we have a strong vision of ‘growing together’. Our staff feel privileged to support this early chapter in each child’s own unique story. As we know, the brain develops most rapidly during the early years and the responsive and connected relationships staff develop helps each child thrive. Supporting staff to attend Togetherness training and implementing the Solihull Approach model has been transformational. We are proud of our practice and how we understand behaviour in nursery – the Solihull Approach model gives us a language to describe our culture around connections. To be the first Gold accredited nursery is a fantastic achievement. Our team is inspired and committed to continue our Togetherness journey.”
Togetherness Team