The 'Roots and Wings' project was created with Howard of Effingham School in response to a growing and urgent need: increasing numbers of young people are struggling with their mental health, leading to missed education and long-term impacts on their wellbeing and future opportunities.
This project is about early support, building confidence, and helping students reconnect with learning, themselves, and each other.
Our shared aim was simple: to help young people feel safe, supported, and empowered to re-engage with education and life.
How the Programme Works
The approach combines early intervention, creative learning, and a strong partnership between the school and a safe space: West Horsley Place.
Early One-to-One Support
As soon as a student begins to struggle with attendance, Howard of Effingham School offer rapid one-to-one support, often within a week of referral. Some students are able to return quickly to the school's Buddy Room (a quiet space for welcoming back students sponsored by Joe's Buddy Line), while others need to continue with individual support and join the wellbeing courses.
A Safe, Neutral Space
All the sessions take place at West Horsley Place. With 400 acres of estate, beautiful formal gardens and an historic Manor House we offer a tranquil location. Students can attend this calm, supportive space outside of school for half a day each week, helping them rebuild confidence without the pressure or worries a classroom setting might bring them.
Nine-Week Wellbeing Courses
Each term, small groups take part in a nine-week course, based in the Manor House and estate, focused on building confidence, resilience, and practical mental health strategies through arts and nature-based activities. Students also meet with qualified psychotherapists at West Horsley Place as part of the programme.
Enrichment Days
Half-termly enrichment days help strengthen peer connections, build confidence, and act as a preventative measure for students at risk of disengaging.
Parent and Carer Support
Howard of Effingham School also run regular events to help parents and carers understand young people’s mental health and learn how best to support their children. These are open to families from any school.
Our Impact
The first year of the programme has shown strong positive outcomes. Most participating students increased their engagement in education, with many returning to full-time school. Relationships between students and school staff have strengthened, and young people have accessed wider support services.
Students have told us that the programme has helped them feel more confident, relaxed, and hopeful about the future.
Looking Ahead
Following a successful pilot year, we are seeking funding to continue and expand the programme. From 2027, we hope to work with more schools and reach more young people who need support.
By investing in early, personalised mental health support, we can help young people build resilience, confidence, and brighter futures.
This project has been made possible due to support from the The National Lottery Heritage Fund and we are grateful to them and all National Lottery players.
