Key Voices

This week we talk to Andy Mellor,  Strategic Lead for the Carnegie Centre of Excellence in Mental Health in Schools based at Leeds Beckett University, and the National Wellbeing Director for Schools Advisory Service about mental health and wellbeing. We discuss the emerging role of the senior mental health lead and the various aspects of this role and associated training. We also consider the need for whole-school preventative approaches, as well as support for those most acutely affected by mental health difficulties. Andy also shares some successful strategies from his own time as a headteacher.   We talk about:  Andy’s own long career working in and with schools  The changing landscape with regard to volume and complexity of mental health need  Andy’s advice for serving headteachers based on his experience The links Andy has observed between schools that have a strong wellbeing approach and sustained school improvement  The role of senior mental health leads and what their training might involve