The Willows
What is the Willows?
The Willows is a space that children can use if they are experiencing or holding on to very difficult emotions. Children can come and visit us at any point to share how their day is going. They can explore the room which has lots of therapeutic story books, fidget toys, games (Dobble and Uno are particular favourites) and sensory toys.
Some children enjoy sharing their lunch with us and this is a great time to relax and have a chat and a chill.
Some children find it difficult to separate from adults in the morning. You will often see The Willows team outside on the playground greeting children with a smile and a helping hand.
The Willows is also a place where children can think about their friendships and any issues they may be experiencing. The Willows uses restorative practice and Elsa interventions.
The space is also used by external agencies such as the School Health Nurse, social workers and child practitioners. We also like to share a coffee and a biscuit with our parents. Parents can also phone directly through to The Willows regarding any concerns they have about their children.
Whatever the child might be experiencing at any one point, The Willows can be a space that is flexible, nurturing and fun.
Meet the Team
Amanda Jones - Child and Family Support Worker
Amanda is a trained Family Links facilitator. She is Elsa trained and a therapeutic mentor. Amanda is also trained in how to facilitate restorative conversations. Amanda works 5 days a week. Amanda is one of Willowcrofts Designated Safeguarding leads.
Tracy Hammond - Child and Family Support Worker
Tracy is a trained Family Links facilitator. She is Elsa trained and a therapeutic mentor. Tracy is also trained in how to facilitate restorative conversations. Tracy works Monday to Thursday. Tracy is one of Willowcrofts Designated Safeguarding leads.
Jess Readings - Child and Family Support Worker
Jess is new to the school and is excited to be part of the team and meet our families. Jess works on a Monday, Tuesday and Friday and is excited to meet you all.
Welcome to the Willows
Please see the latest Willows newsletter.
NSPCC
The NSPCC is the UK's leading children's charity, preventing abuse and helping those affected to recover.
Cahms
CAMHS stands for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. CAMHS help children and young people up to 18 who are finding it hard to cope with everyday life because of difficult feelings, behaviour or relationships.
Family Links
Emotional health for all Family Links is a national charity dedicated to the promotion of emotional health at home, at school, and at work.
Oxfordshire Safeguarding Children's Board
It is everybody’s responsibility to keep children and young people safe. If you’re concerned that a child is being abused or neglected you should report it so that the child can be protected.
sAFE Oxfordshire
An ELSA in a school is an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant. There is a recognised ELSA training course aimed specifically at Teaching Assistants in schools. Examples of things covered on the course are social skills, emotions, bereavement, social stories and therapeutic stories, anger management, self-esteem, counselling skills such as solution focus and friendship.