The new principal of Highgate Hill House School, an independent school for children with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs in Whitstone, has just successfully completed a diploma to become a TIS (Trauma Informed Schools) Practitioner.

The diploma is designed to inform and empower school staff to respond effectively to vulnerable children and young people who have experienced trauma and/or have a mental health issue, meaning that Principal Kerry Taylor can now embed this approach across all areas of the school and better support pupils.

Principal Kerry said: “Unfortunately, on average it takes a child 10 years to receive help for a mental health problem. The wellbeing of our pupils is hugely important, and so by expanding our knowledge as a school of the impacts that trauma can have on our children and young people, learning how to alleviate their suffering and support their learning, we can make them feel cared for and appreciated.”

She added: “I am passionate about making Highgate a mentally healthy place to learn and work, with emotional wellbeing high on our agenda. As well as this approach benefiting our pupils, it’s important to note that our staff will benefit too and will hopefully have a positive impact on the mental health of the school culture as a whole”. 

For more information about Highgate Hill House School, visit www.hhhschool.co.uk, email [email protected] or call 01288 341998.