Photo: Richard Kelley, Chaplaincy Adviser Bath and Wells, Juls Haddow, Pastoral Support Mentor.
Minehead Middle School located on the edge of Exmoor has launched a fundraising campaign to support plans for a new chaplaincy, centred on the work of its Pastoral Support Mentor, Juls Haddow. The school is also committed to training Juls to become the School Chaplain.
The Sanctuary is also used as part of the school’s pastoral care strategy to promote wellbeing, inclusion, and emotional regulation. In the space Juls Haddow, the Pastoral Support Mentor, offers one-to-one interventions and short courses around specialist subjects including anger management, self-harm and resilience. He is also a friendly face students can talk to about anything that is worrying or emotionally impacting them.Juls says, “During the school week, the Sanctuary has an open-door policy during break times and lunchtimes for all students, it offers a welcoming haven where young people feel safe and able to share their concerns knowing they will find friendly welcoming support.”
After years of use and weather damage the Sanctuary is now in need of being rebuilt. The plan is to build two new spaces on a slightly larger footprint. The students are fully supportive and excited to see a new Sanctuary and Chapel space built. One Year 6 pupil said, “I love the Sanctuary and everything about it. Juls has been helping my anger issues, and it really helped.” Another Year 7 pupil shared what the space meant to them, “I love how nice the vibe in the Sanctuary is, and the fact that it’s also warm. On top of all of this it’s a safe space to chill and vent.” A Year 8 pupil spoke about how the Sanctuary helps to change their mood, “What I love about the Sanctuary is how calm it is and for all the support I get. Juls has helped me understand my emotions, and what to do instead of going mad.”
Building on already strong links, the local community, churches, and businesses in Minehead and beyond have been invited to support the project, as part of these ongoing links. Alongside this the school is also building strong links with school pastors to establish a routine where they can come into the school on a regular basis. It is hoped the pastors will be based at the new Sanctuary in a designated chapel space, which will be available to use for private conversations, prayer or reflection.
If you want to find out more and support this exciting new venture, please contact Juls Haddow: JHaddow@beaconedu.uk