Following our online symposium in May 2026, we have collated the information shared and the lessons learnt.
Minds Ahead and Leeds Beckett University support schools to become inclusive communities where pupils and staff thrive.
Our online symposium brought together school leaders and practitioners who have completed, or are currently undertaking, postgraduate study in school mental health.
Hear how research and professional learning translate into meaningful change across roles, phases and international contexts.
“Participants report increased confidence in leading and strengthening mental health provision across their school.”
Claudia Cardoso, Educational Psychologist and Head of Inclusion, The British School of Rio de Janeiro.
A review of the evolving role of Educational Psychologists in Brazil and the UK and the push toward inclusive, social practices. I will discuss how moving beyond traditional medical models allows for more holistic, multi-agency support for children and their communities.
Lucy McCabe, Director of Student Welfare, Kings Academy, Reading
Insights into translating learning into strategic leadership and sustained school-wide impact.
Emma Kavanagh, Deputy Headteacher, Senior Mental Health Lead, Arthur Mellows Village College
A shared leadership experience of implementing a peer mentoring course in a mainstream secondary school as part of a whole school approach to mental health. Focus on training and implementation in a leadership role, and the learned experiences from doing this.
Danielle James, Pastoral Lead and Mental Health Lead, Stoke Lodge Primary School
Reflections on completing a Master’s in school mental health, exploring how this has strengthened professional practice, leadership and confidence, and contributed to improved outcomes for children and young people through whole-school and multi-agency approaches.
If you are exploring the School Mental Health Specialist or Leadership programmes starting in September 2026, this session will give a clear, practical insight into the impact of postgraduate study on your development and your school.
