Learning and wellbeing support for children and young people

Families being asked to ‘stay at home’ can access further learning and wellbeing support thanks to recommended websites, apps and resources from Northumberland County Council’s Education and Skills team.

Whilst some children and young people will still need to attend school because they have been identified as vulnerable or because they are a child of a critical key worker most children and young people in Northumberland will be accessing remote learning and support at home.

Northumberland’s schools already have in place some excellent remote learning programmes and support, but with parents and carers being asked to work from home if they can, and educate their children from home if they can, the team have worked to further support children, young people and schools.

Councillor Guy Renner-Thompson, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Children’s Services said: “We know how difficult it is for parents, carers and our schools to face another national lockdown. It is not what anyone had hoped for, but our teams have worked hard to recommend remote learning tools to further help our children and young people. We must work together to fight this virus and by staying at home as much as possible you will be doing your bit – and we thank you for that.”

Parents, carers and schools can access further learning support at https://www.northumberland.gov.uk/coronavirus/Northumberland-schools.aspx#TOP

Children and young people aged 11 upwards can also access mental health and wellbeing support via Kooth – an app that offers a free, safe, anonymous space to access online support and counselling. Support features and tools are available to those looking for advice or not feeling their best, whilst also providing an opportunity to share experiences and interests and learn from others. Head to www.kooth.com or search Kooth in your app store.

Cath McEvoy-Carr, Executive Director for Adult and Children’s services said: “Supporting our children, young people and schools is imperative as we continue to feel the effects of the pandemic. Our schools have worked extremely hard to put in place learning packages for those at home, including a more inclusive virtual offer.

“We know it is hard but please be reassured support is out there.”