Guidance for reintegration of pupils after a leave of absence

All staff need to be kind and do not need to be therapists. CYP need consistent, emotionally available adults.

Counselling Services

Offer access to school counselling services to help the pupil manage any emotional or psychological challenges.

• Kooth is a free, safe, and anonymous online mental health and emotional well-being platform for children, young people, and adults. It offers access to professional counsellors, peer support through moderated forums, and self-help tools—all available without a referral.
• Just One Norfolk is an NHS-supported digital health and wellbeing service for children, young people, and families in Norfolk. It provides trusted advice, resources, and access to clinical support on topics like child development, emotional health, parenting, and school life. Families can contact the service via phone, text, or online for guidance tailored to their needs.
• Mental Health Support Teams (MHST) in Norfolk schools provide early intervention for children and young people experiencing mild to moderate mental health difficulties. They offer evidence-based support through individual sessions, group work, and guidance for families and school staff. The teams also help schools develop a whole-school approach to mental health and wellbeing.
• Shout is a free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service for anyone in the UK struggling with their mental health. By texting 'SHOUT' to 85258, users can connect with trained volunteers who provide immediate support and help people move from crisis to calm.
• Mountain Molehill is a free, evidence-based app designed to help autistic people understand and manage anxiety. Developed by Autistica in collaboration with King's College London, it offers daily check-ins, practical strategies, and personalised insights to support mental wellbeing.
• Map offers free, confidential mental health support for young people in Norfolk, including advice, counselling, and youth mental health work. Services are delivered by trained professionals and include drop-in sessions, one-to-one support, and help with issues like anxiety, depression, identity, and relationships. MAP creates a safe, non-judgemental space where young people are listened to and supported at their own pace.

Nurture Groups

Implement small group sessions focused on building social skills and emotional resilience.

Buddies

For children with EAL, a buddy who speaks the same first language may help a child with more limited English feel settled and less anxious.  The Young Interpreters Scheme provides excellent training for buddies.  

ELSA

ELSA trained practitioners may be available in school. Further training could be accessed through EPSS.

SEMH Team

Explore this as part of the EPSS offer accessed through the Team Around the School (TAS) or the SEND and Inclusion phoneline.

ASD Team

Explore this as part of the EPSS offer accessed through the Team Around the School (TAS) and the SEND and Inclusion phoneline.

Pastoral Team

Many schools have access to various professionals within their settings, but it is important that all staff support a relational approach.