Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs can significantly impede a child’s ability to engage with and benefit from education. SEMH issues can act as substantial barriers to learning, but understanding their significance is the first step in overcoming them.

As educators, we at Lumen Academy, recognise that these needs often stem from complex and diverse issues, including Trauma, Anxiety, or Behavioural Disorders When SEMH is not addressed proactively:

  • Pupils may experience difficulty in developing positive relationships with peers and adults.
  • Challenges in managing emotions can lead to disengagement or disruptive behaviour within the classroom.
  • Learning potential can be overshadowed by behavioural concerns, leading to a cycle of low academic achievement and diminished self-esteem.

We at Lumen Academy, emphasise that traditional discipline-focused approaches are often ineffective for SEMH pupils. Instead, we advocate for nurturing environments where each child feels valued, understood, and supported.

Staff at Lumen Academy understand that tailored support can transform a pupil’s relationship with education. Hence we provide:

  • Individualised strategies to help manage emotions and behaviour, contributing to a more conducive learning atmosphere.
  • A focus on positive reinforcement encourages personal and academic growth, therefore building the confidence necessary for learning.
  • Address SEMH needs that places students in a better position to engage with the curriculum and achieve their academic and vocational potential.

Recognising the profound impact SEMH can have on learning, staff at Lumen Academy are committed to holistic approaches that encompass academic, emotional, and social development. We understand that by supporting our pupils’ SEMH needs effectively, can unlock their potential for success both in school and beyond.

Our teaching strategies are diversified. We employ a range of educational practices such as:

One-to-one mentoring

Small group sessions

Therapy-based learning

Vocational training

Experiential outdoor education

These are tailored to resonate with each pupil, fostering not just academic success but also personal growth and resilience.

Moreover, our assessment methods are as varied as our teaching approaches. We do not rely solely on traditional examinations but integrate continuous and dynamic forms of evaluation.

Our ethos extends beyond the classroom. We understand the complexities of SEMH challenges and work collaboratively with parents, carers, and a multidisciplinary team of professionals to ensure a supportive network surrounds each pupil.

At the heart of our alternative provision is the unwavering commitment to respect, nurture, and inspire each child, understanding that their journey is unique. The ultimate goal is to empower our students, equipping them to thrive within and beyond the school environment. With this ethos, we strive to maximise the potential of every individual who walks through our doors.

We also offer One to One Tuitions (Face to face or Remotely):

Home tutoring services offered by Lumen Academy can act as a life-changing aid for primary & secondary students with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs or for students with other medical needs. This service comes with several key benefits:

1. Personalized Learning Environment: Home tutoring allows for a tailored approach to education, focusing on the individual learning style, strengths, and areas of improvement for each student. This individualized attention can significantly boost confidence and engagement.

2. Flexible Pacing: The flexibility of home tutoring means lessons can be paced according to the student’s needs, allowing more time to understand and master topics. This can reduce anxiety and pressure compared to the often rigid pacing of traditional classrooms.

3. Comfortable Setting & focused Attention: Being in a familiar and secure environment at home can reduce stress and improve focus. For students with SEMH needs, a home setting can feel more supportive and less intimidating than a traditional school setting. One-on-one tutoring ensures that students receive undivided attention from their tutor, who can provide immediate feedback and support. This focused attention can be crucial for addressing specific emotional or behavioural challenges.

4. Building Relationships: A strong, positive relationship with a tutor can foster trust and a sense of safety, which is essential for students with SEMH needs. Tutors can act as role models and provide consistent emotional support.

5. Adaptable Teaching Methods: Tutors can adapt teaching methods and materials to suit the specific SEMH needs of the student, incorporating techniques such as mindfulness, stress management, and social skills development into the learning process.

Overall, home tutoring services at Lumen Academy can be uniquely positioned to cater to the specific needs of students with SEMH and medical requirements, providing them with the personalized and supportive learning environment they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.