Who is our Learning Mentor?

Our Learning Mentor is Mrs Plant and she is based in St. Gabriel’s Room in the centre of school. 

“Hi to all our Willows family!

For those who do not know me my name is Mrs Plant (Sam) and I have worked at The Willows for almost ten years.  I am a trained counsellor and the Senior Mental Health Lead for the school. My actual role is Learning Mentor but I also support families. I work alongside other agencies in helping to support our children and their families. I have links with Food Banks, local charities, Lancashire County Council, Fylde Coast Women’s Aid, New Start Counselling and the Children and Family Well-being Service to name but a few. I might not always have the answers but I will always support you to find a solution.

All support and advice is confidential. Sometimes parents just need someone to talk; to off load and I am here. Parenting is a challenging role and can often be stressful, I know I’m a mum and I’ve been there!”

What does Mrs Plant do?

To support our children, Mrs Plant…

• works with children who are new to our school to help them form friendships and feel part of our school family.
• supports children with key transitions including moving between schools or classes.
• works with individuals and groups of children with self-esteem and confidence building work.
• helps children understand and manage their emotions and behaviour.
• helps children with friendship issues including helping them to resolve differences with their friends.
• provides support and guidance to children who are experiencing difficulties due to social or emotional issues.
• supports children with changes in their family such as bereavement, a new baby, the loss of a pet or family breakdown.

To support our families, Mrs Plant…

• provides a listening ear for parents when they need it.
• supports parents with any concerns that they may have regarding the well-being of their child. (This can range from bedtime routines, being unsettled coming in to school, to managing behaviour and emotions at home).
• supports families where a child has attendance or punctuality issues.
• provides information and signposting to other services in the local area.
• provides advice and support in promoting positive behaviour at home.
• supports families with benefit, debt or housing issues.
• makes referrals to other agencies or people who can support families with particular issues eg The Key Family Support, Children and Family Wellbeing Service, Barnardos,
• makes referrals to the Food Bank