Place2Be at Princess May Primary School

‘Our vision is a world where children have the opportunity to grow up with prospects rather than problems.’

Place2Be is a service available for all pupils at Princess May on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Place2Be gives children the chance to talk about their feelings, help them feel good about themselves and be more able to learn.

My name is Rodney Dee and I'm the new Place2Be School Project Manager at Princess May (taking over from Simone Panas). I'm a qualified Art Therapist who has worked with children in educational and therapeutic settings for over 8 years. Within my role I manage our Volunteer Counsellors and work with children on a one-to-one basis and in small groups, offering support for those who need it most. I also run a drop in service called Place2Talk, where children can talk to us during their lunch break. 

What difference does Place2Be make in your child’s school?

Place2Be is a national charity working in over 235 UK schools to improve the confidence and emotional wellbeing of children. We help children to develop resilience by supporting them when they are experiencing challenging life issues and helping them to develop self-confidence and lifelong coping skills. When they are supported in this way, they are able to learn more easily and that means less worry for parents.

How we help children

All pupils can find help with friendship issues and other worries by choosing to visit Place2Talk. These short lunchtime sessions are open to individuals and to groups. Place2Be also works with children one-to-one and in small groups, offering regular time-tabled support for those who will benefit most. The school will often refer children for this service. We always obtain written consent from parents or carers before working with children.

How we help families

We routinely meet with parents to discuss any concerns they may have about their children. Appointments can be arranged with the School Project Manager to suit their availability. 

How we help schools

Place2Be also supports teachers and school staff members to think through the emotional needs of children and advises and supports the school leadership which helps the whole school to thrive.

How Place2Be works

There is a special Place2Be room inside the school where children can go to express and think about their worries, through talking, creative work and play. Adults that are qualified to work therapeutically, called School Project Managers, support this process, helping children to find new ways of coping with difficulties so they don’t get in the way of friendships or learning.

Times when we’re especially useful

There are times when children feel particularly sad, confused, fearful or angry, due to, for example,  family challenges such as separation or illness, or even the death of a much-loved pet. Some children may become withdrawn; others may become demanding or challenging in their behaviour: that’s when having Place2Be in school is especially helpful.

Who is eligible for Place2Be?

Any child requiring emotional support for any reason.

If you would like to meet with me or find out more about the Place2Be services offered at Princess May Primary School, please email rdee@princessmay.hackney.sch.uk