§ Ms ShipleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what guidance is provided for head teachers and school governors on the provision of counselling services based in schools. [8104]
§ Mr. TimmsWe very much recognise the benefit of counselling for pupils facing specific difficulties, although we have not issued guidance to head teachers and governors on the provision of counselling services in schools. Schools can contact their local education authority for information about local services.
The Department's latest guidance on mental health mentioned school-based counselling, and highlighting the importance of pupils' emotional well-being is a key aspect of the national healthy school standard. In addition, learning mentors and Connexions personal advisers in schools look at young people's concerns, work with them to identify solutions, and where necessary access specialist help to allow them to overcome barriers to learning.
We recognise that recent international events may have caused pupils to become anxious or frightened. We are currently finalising new guidance which will advise schools to look for signs of stress or unease in children and, where appropriate, arrange counselling with a suitably qualified person.