At Blackpool Aspire Academy, we are deeply committed to nurturing the mental health and wellbeing of all our students. We recognise that a calm, safe environment built on consistent routines and clear expectations provides the strongest foundation for learning and personal growth. Through our dedication to Trauma-Informed Practice and a wide range of in-school support, we ensure that every Aspire student feels safe, understood, and valued.
Trauma Informed Practice
Trauma-Informed Practice is an approach that recognises how difficult or distressing experiences can affect a young person’s behaviour, emotions, and ability to learn. In school, this means we focus on understanding why a student may be struggling rather than simply reacting to what we see. Staff are trained to respond with empathy, consistency, and support, helping students to feel safe, valued, and understood. By building positive relationships and creating a calm, predictable environment, we aim to help every young person feel secure and ready to achieve their best.
Aspire Academy presents a warm, welcoming, and highly structured environment where staff work with clarity and compassion. The school is visibly well-organised, and expectations for behaviour and routines are high, but not rigidly enforced without adaptation for the needs of some children. Instead, there is a balance between structure and nurture—reflective of a culture that prioritises psychological safety and relational trust - Trauma Informed Schools UK June 2025
Staff Training
Students
At Aspire, we are committed to supporting students in understanding their minds and bodies and developing the skills they need to manage everyday challenges, such as low mood, anxiety, and resolving conflict. Through our carefully planned PSHE curriculum, dedicated Form Time Personal Development sessions, and, where appropriate, individual support, we help students build emotional awareness, develop healthy coping strategies, and strengthen their ability to regulate their emotions. Our aim is to equip every young person with the knowledge and confidence to navigate both school life and the wider world with resilience and self-belief.
Meet the Team
Darren Ewart - Deputy Headteacher - Personal Development
Kayleigh Taylor - Director of Personal Development/ Trauma Informed Practitioner/ Mental Health Lead/ Mental Health First Aider
Lesley Gregory - PSHE Lead/ Mental Health First Aider/ Professional Trainer in Mindfulness
Catherine Hodgson - YouTherapy Counsellor- Based at Aspire
Magdalene Clayton - SHINE Practioner
Elizabeth Bradford - SHINE Practioner
Mental Health and Wellbeing Support in School
We offer a range of support services within school to help meet our students’ mental health and wellbeing needs. Referrals are considered on an individual basis and assessed in collaboration with mental health professionals to ensure the most appropriate support is provided. Where suitable, students may access in-school services delivered by trained staff or visiting professionals. If in-school support is not the best option, we will work closely with parents and carers to signpost alternative services outside of school that can offer the right help.
- 1:1 Counselling with Catherine Hodgson (YouTherapy) 6 Weeks
- SHINE Therapy 1:1 and Small Group Workshops
- Access to Hive/The Bridge
- Drop in sessions
Mental Health and Wellbeing in the Community and Online
The Hub of Hope - https://hubofhope.co.uk/
The Hub of Hope is a national mental health and wellbeing directory that helps you find support services for both children and adults in your local area. Simply enter your postcode and select the type of support you’re looking for, and the Hub of Hope will provide a list of relevant organisations, including contact details and website links, to help you access the right support near you.
Low Mood
It’s completely normal for teenagers to experience low moods from time to time. Adolescence can be a challenging stage of life, with many physical, emotional, and social changes taking place. However, if a young person’s low mood is persistent and begins to affect their daily life or ability to engage with school and friends, it may be helpful to seek professional advice and support. Below are some services that can offer guidance and help.
Young Minds - https://www.youngminds.org.uk/
Barnardo’s - https://www.barnardos.org.uk/get-support/support-for-parents-and-carers/mental-health
Mind - Young People - https://www.mind.org.uk/for-young-people/
Kooth - https://www.kooth.com/
Youtherapy Drop in Sessions every Wednesday - Connect Centre, Talbot Road 3pm-5pm (No appointment needed)
Feeling Anxious
Feeling anxious as a teenager is very common and completely normal. Adolescence is a time of big change: new responsibilities, social pressures, exams, and lots of physical and emotional development. It’s natural for young people to feel worried or overwhelmed at times as they learn to cope with these changes. While occasional anxiety is part of growing up, if those feelings start to become constant or interfere with daily life, it may be a sign that extra support could help. Talking to someone such as a trusted adult, teacher, or professional can make a big difference. No one has to manage anxious feelings alone. Below are some services that can help.
The Mix - https://www.themix.org.uk/
Mind - Young People - https://www.mind.org.uk/for-young-people/
Kooth - https://www.kooth.com/
Young Minds - https://www.youngminds.org.uk/
Poor Sleep
Sleep plays a vital role in teenage health and development. During sleep, the brain and body recharge, supporting learning, memory, mood, and emotional wellbeing. Teens need more sleep than adults (around 8–10 hours a night) because their bodies and brains are still growing. When young people don’t get enough sleep, they may find it harder to concentrate in school, regulate their emotions, and cope with stress. Poor sleep can also increase feelings of anxiety or low mood, affect motivation, and make everyday tasks feel more difficult. Developing healthy sleep habits can greatly improve energy levels, mood, and academic success. Below are some websites with actions and guides to help you support your child in setting better sleep habits.
Teen Sleep Hub - https://teensleephub.org.uk/
The Sleep Charity - https://thesleepcharity.org.uk/
Young Minds - https://www.youngminds.org.uk/
Mind - Young People - https://www.mind.org.uk/for-young-people/
Self Harm
Self-harm in teenagers can be a sign that they are feeling overwhelmed by difficult emotions or situations. Many young people who self-harm do so as a way to cope with feelings such as sadness, anger, stress, or anxiety when they feel unable to express their emotions or ask for help. It’s important to understand that self-harm is not “attention-seeking”, it is a sign that a young person is struggling and needs support. If a teenager is self-harming, reaching out with empathy, listening without judgement, and encouraging them to talk to a trusted adult or professional can make a huge difference. With the right help, young people can learn healthier ways to manage their emotions and begin to feel more in control.
Young Minds - https://www.youngminds.org.uk/
Barnardo’s - https://www.barnardos.org.uk/get-support/support-for-parents-and-carers/mental-health
Mind - Young People - https://www.mind.org.uk/for-young-people/
Kooth - https://www.kooth.com/
Youtherapy Drop in Sessions every Wednesdays - Connect Centre, Talbot Road 3pm-5pm (No appointment needed)
Relationships with eating/food
It’s not uncommon for teenagers to experience changes in their eating habits as they navigate growing independence, body changes, and social pressures. However, persistent worries about food, weight, or body image, changes in eating routines, or avoiding meals may be signs that a young person is struggling with their relationship with food. Eating issues can develop for many reasons, including stress, anxiety, low mood, or difficulties with self-esteem. Early support and open conversations can make a big difference. If you’re worried about your child’s eating behaviours, reaching out for guidance and reassurance can help you understand how best to support them.
Beat Eating Disorders - https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk
NHS Eating Disorders Support - https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/eating-disorders
Place to be - https://www.place2be.org.uk