Im sorry to hear but the bullying culture is becoming something of a serious epidemic and not just within Education.

Are you back in work now Kat? Its still a struggle for me at the moment. Too much competition out there.

I was just wondering how our friends in the US feel right now about the N Korea situation? I hope no one here was affected by Harvey or the LA fires :(

Hip hip horay! I've got an interview.

Kat & Iuventus- do you both have any experience of working with adolescents who have mental illnesses/learning difficulties etc. CAMHS?

There will be some young adults for part of the interview. I was like 'yikes' when i read that bit. How on earth do i prepare?

In answer to your question Serenity, yes. Lots, but only in a teaching capacity, not social work as such. I did teach lessons about Mental Health and was specialist trained in Self Harm, Domestic Abuse etc, but individual pupil " cases" were the remit of the Learning Mentor in liaison with CAMHS etc. I did look to apply for a job working with the latter but you need a background / quals in social work. I understand your frustration- I feel like all that training and work I did was for nothing now that I've been pushed out of my job, just when youngsters are crying out for it more than ever. It makes absolutely no sense.
The first piece of work I've got coming up is home tutoring a lad with mental health issues ( English). I'm waiting for supply work now but never ever bored!

Hi Kat i have a nursing background but decided to move away from it as it was draining. I've also had experience in a special needs setting for 2 months, I've done voluntary work in a primary school and children's centre, and also as teaching assistant most recently. So this job (If i get it) will be an amalgamation of education merged within healthcare.

I have asked others for the advice too. Such a shame when your pushed out of a job.

So how do you support your students who have mental health issues? How do you tailor the work for them? Do you alter your style of communication? How do you differentiate for that particular student and do you wait to see their statement from the LA?

I can imagine Kat that will be rewarding for you. I think the main thing is not to make them feel inferior and to take the stigma away. Mental illness and the mind is not something to easily dismiss. But what these students need is a friend at the very least.

:)

Good on you. Paul Robeson had such a beautiful, rich voice. Hopefully, all will be OK but you need to stay positive.
Keep us informed. I would send 'thoughts and prayers' but that would be hollow with my beliefs but I do believe in the power of the mind, which some confuse with prayer.