SEL and SEMH – the areas of need in children

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is an integral part of education and the foundation for all children’s development of core life skills. Social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) support is critical for children experiencing emotional distress, mental health challenges, or behavioural difficulties that impact their ability to engage with school and learning.

Together, SEL and SEMH support form a whole-child approach to emotional wellbeing in schools.

Proactive and Universal

Social and emotional learning (SEL) skill building is the foundation that promotes wellbeing and reduces the risk of SEMH difficulties developing.

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is an integral part of education and crucial for all children’s development.

SEL is about building emotional intelligence and healthy social behaviours. SEL is embedded into daily school life – through curriculum, relationships, and culture – and proactively supports every child in developing core life skills.

  • Understanding SEL – an overview: The foundational role of SEL in children’s overall development and its impact on their academic and personal lives. ​

  • Why SEL is so important: The benefits of SEL, include improved social and emotional skills, enhanced academic performance and behaviours, and healthier relationships with peers.
  • Embedding SEL in schools: Strategies for integrating SEL into the school curriculum and culture, creating supportive relationships and environments that foster emotional wellbeing and social competence among students. ​
  • Developing social and emotional skills: A look at what skills are developed and practices for nurturing SEL competencies in children.
  • SEL programmes and provision: An overview of the three broad categories of SEL and how they can be implemented effectively in educational settings and the importance of selecting evidence-based programmes.

Responsive and Targeted

Strong social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) is the most significant factor in children leading happy, healthy, fulfilled lives.

Supporting children with SEMH needs requires a range of practical SEMH strategies and interventions, tailored to meet individual child needs.

Children with social, emotional and mental health difficulties (SEMHD) such as anxiety, low self-esteem, and challenges with peer relationships and behaviour require SEMH assessment, early identification and targeted interventions.

  • Understanding SEMH – an overview: A critical aspect of children’s overall development, it’s important to recognise and address SEMH needs to support children’s emotional wellbeing and academic success.

  • Defining SEMH: The social, emotional and mental health difficulties (SEMHD) defined, as well as the behaviours and signs of need.
  • Causes of SEMH needs: The various factors that may contribute to a child’s SEMH needs, including trauma, family dynamics and neurodiversity.​

  • Impact of SEMH: A look at how unmet SEMH needs can affect children’s academic performance, social relationships, and future opportunities.​

  • Promoting SEMH in schools: Strategies for fostering a school-wide culture that supports SEMH, emphasising relational and inclusive practices.​

  • Assessment and early intervention: Guidelines on identifying SEMH needs early and implementing appropriate support to address challenges.