Guidance for schools after the Manchester terrorist attack

With the half term approaching, it’s with great sadness that some pupils, teachers and families are mourning the loss of loved ones after the terrorist attack in Manchester.

The events of Monday night has left all of us upset, anxious and confused – especially young pupils who are coming to terms with the loss of fellow pupils, family members and friends.

It’s important we continue to have open discussions to give our young people the best advice and guidance possible and let pupils know that it is okay to feel upset or worried as many others are feeling the same.

We have compiled a list of resources to help you start conversations in your classroom to discuss recent events.

Resources

• BBC Newsround has put together an informative article and video giving pupils tips about what to do if they are feeling sad about what they’ve seen, heard or read.
• The NSPCC has compiled an article explaining how to talk about difficult topics such as terrorism.
• The PHSE Association has a range of frameworks and resources in place to help you discuss the attack with secondary and primary school pupils.
• If you are a member of the National Association of Headteachers (NAHT), you can call NAHT’s team of professional advisors on 0300 30 30 333 if you require any assistance or advice in supporting pupils.
• The Young Person’s Advisory Service (YPAS) and CAMHS (Children and Adolescents Mental Health Service) are offering support to young people in Liverpool affected by Manchester attack.

  CAMHS has mental health link workers connected to each of the city’s secondary schools while YPAS has community hubs across the city where young people can pop in for a chat or to arrange counselling.

Any adult worried about how a child is coping following a terrorist attack can contact the NSPCC Helpline for 24/7 help and support on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk

Our thoughts and condolences are with everyone affected by Monday’s tragic attack. To all the teachers, staff, parents and carers, we want to thank you for all the work you do supporting our children and young people in difficult times.

Educate Magazine will continue to celebrate the region’s schools and champion their good news and successes, but we felt it was only right to take pause and reflect on the events of this week.