Mental Health Support
Mental health is just as important as physical health, every student deserves to feel safe, supported, and understood.
We are committed to creating a school environment where conversations around wellbeing are encouraged, where support is accessible, and where students are empowered with the knowledge and tools to thrive emotionally as well as academically.
Our approach to mental health is proactive, inclusive, and compassionate. We promote positive mental health through our curriculum, assemblies, enrichment activities, and daily interactions, while also providing targeted support for those who may need it.
Whether it’s through our dedicated pastoral team, trained Mental Health First Aiders, school counsellor, or trusted relationships with external specialists, we are here to ensure every student feels valued, heard, and cared for.
We want all of our students to know they shouldn’t face things alone, and should make time to talk.
Meet the Team
At Harris Academy Ockendon, the wellbeing of our students is at the heart of everything we do. We understand that good mental health is just as important as academic success, and we are committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where every young person feels valued.
Our Senior Mental Health Lead, Miss Aaronson, plays a key role in this work. She is responsible for shaping and delivering our whole-school approach to mental health and wellbeing, ensuring that students have access to the right support at the right time.
Miss Aaronson works closely with staff, families, and external professionals to:
- Promote a positive culture around mental health.
- Provide advice and guidance to students and staff.
- Coordinate early help and targeted support where needed.
- Oversee staff training so that every adult in our community can play a part in supporting wellbeing.
Whether it’s through preventative initiatives, open conversations, or tailored interventions, Miss Aaronson is here to ensure that our students are not only supported through challenges but are also encouraged to thrive.
Our Mental Health Support Team is here to promote positive wellbeing and provide early support for students who may be experiencing emotional or mental health challenges. The team is made up of both teaching and non-teaching staff who work closely with students, families, and school staff to ensure young people feel safe, supported, and understood.
They offer a range of support, including one-to-one and small-group interventions, advice and guidance, and signposting to specialist services where needed. The team also works proactively within the school community to build resilience, develop coping strategies, and promote good mental health for all students.
By working collaboratively and confidentially, the Mental Health Support Team plays an important role in helping students thrive both academically and emotionally.
Out Mental Health Support Team are:
- Mrs Cook, Lead Practitioner for Sixth Form, and Subject Team Leader of Law
- Miss Dodge, Vice Principal
- Kerry Green, Counsellor
- Mrs Howard, Behaviour Lead
- Ms Janganant, Pastoral Manager
- Miss Luddington, Attendance Administrator
- Miss Stafford, Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
- Miss Thorndike, Mental Health Lead and Teacher of PE
- Mr Warren, Pastoral Manager