Place2Be

Place2Be offers a range of support services tailored to meet the emotional and mental health needs of our pupils.

One-to-One Counselling

Weekly sessions in a safe, confidential space where children can explore their feelings through talking, play, or creative work. These sessions help children manage anxiety, sadness, anger, or worry in a positive way.

Group Support Sessions

Small group sessions help children build confidence, develop resilience, and strengthen friendships. Topics might include managing emotions, self-esteem, and relationships.

Place2Talk

A popular lunchtime drop-in service open to all pupils. Children can refer themselves to speak with a counsellor about any worries on their own or with a friend.

Transition Support

Support for pupils preparing to move from primary to secondary school. Sessions help reduce anxiety and build confidence during this important change.

Whole-Class Wellbeing Activities

Place2Be works with teachers to deliver age-appropriate lessons and activities that build emotional literacy, resilience, and a healthy school culture.

All pupils can find help with friendship issues and other worries by choosing to visit Place2Talk. These short lunchtime sessions are open to individuals and to groups.

Place2Be also works with children one-to-one and in small groups, offering regular time-tabled support for those who will benefit most. The school will often refer children for this service.

Support for Families

We believe that strong partnerships between school and home are key to children’s wellbeing. That’s why Place2Be also supports families in the following ways:

Regular Meetings with Parents

We regularly meet with parents and carers to discuss concerns or offer guidance on supporting their child’s emotional development.

Parent–Child Sessions (PIPT)

In certain situations, joint sessions involving children and their parents or carers may be offered. These sessions aim to enhance communication, build emotional connection, and strengthen family relationships in a supportive therapeutic environment.

Digital Resources for Parents and Carers

Place2Be offers trusted, expert guidance online:

• Parenting Smart – short videos and articles on topics such as routines, anxiety, and boundaries.
  Visit: parentingsmart.place2be.org.uk
• Parent Support Hub – tips and advice to support your child’s mental health.
  Visit: place2be.org.uk/parents

Signposting to Additional Services

If families need extra support, Place2Be can guide you to trusted local and national organisations.

Support for School Staff

Place2Be is committed to supporting the whole school community, including our staff.

Place2Think

A confidential space for teachers and staff to reflect on pupils’ needs, manage challenging situations, and maintain their own wellbeing. These sessions help ensure a supportive, emotionally aware school culture.

Leadership Support

Place2Be also offers advice and consultation to school leaders, helping us create a whole-school approach to mental health and wellbeing.

Want to Learn More?

The following sections provide a deeper look at the difference Place2Be makes in our school and how the service supports children, families, and staff. You can click each heading below to expand and read more.

There is a special Place2Be room inside the school where children can go to express and think about their worries, through talking, creative work and play. Adults that are qualified to work therapeutically, called School Project Managers, support this process, helping children to find new ways of coping with difficulties so they don’t get in the way of friendships or learning.

Place2Be helps children develop the emotional skills they need to cope with life’s challenges. Whether children are facing anxiety, friendship difficulties, or changes at home, Place2Be provides timely, professional support.

Through counselling, group work, and wellbeing activities, children learn how to manage their emotions and build confidence. This not only supports their overall development, but also helps them concentrate, build friendships, and enjoy learning. For parents and carers, it brings reassurance knowing their child’s emotional wellbeing is being supported in school.

There are times when children may feel especially overwhelmed, upset, or anxious. Common situations include:

• Family changes such as separation or divorce
• Serious illness in the family
• Bereavement or loss, including a loved pet
• Friendship difficulties
• Worries about school, exams, or transitions

Some children may become withdrawn or quiet, while others may act out. Place2Be is especially helpful at these times, offering a safe space for children to talk, reflect, and build emotional resilience

All children at Gladstone Park are eligible to access Place2Be support.

Children may:

• Refer themselves to Place2Talk
• Be referred by a teacher or parent for more structured one-to-one or group sessions

Whether your child is facing a big challenge or just needs someone to talk to, Place2Be is here to help. No concern is too small if it matters to your child, it matters to us.