Guidance

Mental health and behaviour in schools

How schools can support pupils whose mental health problems manifest themselves in behaviour.

• From: Department for Education
• Published: 16 June 2014
• Last updated: 12 November 2018
  Show all updates

  1. 12 November 2018

     Updated with information about school responsibilities, and how to identify behaviours that may be related to a mental health problem. Also working with other professionals and external agencies, and where to find extra support.

  2. 18 March 2016

     Reviewed source documents and updated references and website links.

  3. 25 March 2015

     Advice reviewed to ensure web links and references are up-to-date. It also includes information on new policies such as the SEND code of practice and advice on school counselling.

  4. 16 June 2014

     First published.

Applies to England

Documents

Mental health and behaviour in schools

Ref: DFE-00327-2018

PDF, 352 KB, 34 pages

Details

This guidance is for school staff and applies to all schools.

It gives advice on:

• how to create a whole school culture, including promoting positive mental health
• understanding the link between mental health and behaviour
• how to identify children with possible mental health problems
• where and how to put in place support, including working with external agencies where required

It also provides links to sources of further support and guidance.

The intervention and support guidance may also be useful for colleges and other post-16 institutions.

‘Behaviour and discipline in schools: guidance for headteachers and staff is also available.