Bereavement Workshop for Primary Schools (Cohort 2)

At times of bereavement the response from school can be pivotal in ensuring the best support.

This course was developed in consultation with many Leicestershire schools, local bereavement charities, educational psychologists and other experts.

The course is aimed at leadership, teachers, SENCO'S and pastoral staff in primary schools. over the two sessions, in addition to giving practical advice on how best to cater for the needs of grieving individuals, the course also looks at a great many other school-related questions including…

• How children understand bereavement at different ages and stages
• Supporting pupils, families, and staff before, during and after a bereavement
• Language & listening: The impact of what we say and the importance of saying it
• Difficult situations: Anticipating them and achieving the best outcome for pupils
• Notifying the school community in a sensitive and timely manner
• Policies and practice: Examples and guidance
• Handling the media in difficult or traumatic circumstances
• Managing challenging behaviour following bereavement
• Memories and memorials-the importance of long-term support
• Bereavement in the curriculum
• Terminal Illness
• Preparing your school: A check-list for getting it right

The course is led by Steve Harris from Wellbeing Education. Delegates often report not only how much better prepared they feel to provide support, but also how the course was less 'onerous' than they imagined it would be and how positive and prepared they feel afterwards.

The course is now being offered online, as two half day sessions and an optional follow up network meeting. Delegates will receive digital resources to help them share their learning and take forward school planning following the course.

Here are some comments from previous delegates…

"Delivered with sensitivity and professionalism." Headteacher, Ernehale Infant School.

"A difficult subject was delivered in a positive and friendly way with plenty of time for discussion and reflection." Teacher, Goodyers End Primary School.

"A lovely, relaxed, atmosphere, with a good group number." Teacher, Monkspath Primary.

"I now feel confident leading this area in school." Teacher, King Henry VIII Preparatory School

"Useful understanding of children's reactions. Useful policy." Teacher, St. Laurence C of E Primary School.