Education

How to appeal if your child has been refused a school place or you're unhappy with the school they're been offered.

The Five to Thrive approach that helps support children’s mental health, emotional wellbeing, and social development. As a parent, you can use these five simple relational activities—Respond, Engage, Relax, Play, and Talk—to support your child if they are experiencing bullying, or if you're concerned about their social experiences.

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RESPOND

• • Notice changes in your child’s behaviour (e.g. withdrawal, anxiety, reluctance to go to school).

• • Reassure them that you are listening and will support them.

• • Stay calm and avoid overreacting, so your child feels safe to open up.

ENGAGE

• • Spend regular, quality time with your child doing things they enjoy.

• • Ask gentle, open-ended questions about their day and friendships.

• • Let your child know they are loved, valued, and not alone.

RELAX

• • Help your child unwind after school with relaxing activities (e.g. drawing, music, nature walks).

• • Establish calming routines, especially at bedtime, to reduce anxiety.

• • Teach and model coping strategies like breathing exercises or mindfulness.

PLAY

• • Use play to encourage expression—young children often communicate emotions through games or art.

• • Play games together to strengthen your connection and build resilience.

• • Encourage safe social playdates to help build or rebuild positive peer relationships.

TALK

• • Create a safe space for your child to talk about their feelings.

• • Help them find words for what’s happening—e.g., 'It sounds like that made you feel left out. Is that right?'

• • Reassure them it’s always okay to ask for help, and guide them on how to speak to trusted adults at school.

To find out more about Five to Thrive please click here