A NEW training scheme has launched to improve wellbeing and mental health support as students and staff go back to schools and colleges.

The Wellbeing for Education Return programme, starting in September, will support staff working in schools and colleges to respond to the additional pressures some children and young people may be feeling as a direct result of the pandemic, as well as respond to any emotional response they or their teachers may still be experiencing from bereavement, stress, trauma or anxiety over the past months

The Government has announced the scheme will be backed by £8 million to provide schools and colleges with the knowledge and access to resources they need to support children and young people, teachers and parents.

The autumn term will be the first time many pupils have been with their classmates or teachers in person since schools closed to prevent the spread of the virus.