At Fordcombe we are fortunate to have a Learning Mentor who promotes self-esteem, well-being, and engagement for individual students who are experiencing difficulties or challenges. Our Learning Mentor is able to develop pupils' confidence and self-esteem through listening to them and devising appropriate programmes of support. We encourage parents, carers and students to speak to a trusted adult at school if they feel the support of our Learning Mentor would be beneficial.

At Fordcombe, we recognise that every child is unique, every child is worthy and every child is capable of growth. We also recognise that at times, every child may need help and support to 'shine their light'. Our Learning Mentor is a part of the Pastoral Support Team (including the Home School Link Worker), and is also a trained Mental Health Lead. Mrs Esther Bell is able to offer support to students who need help negotiating some of life’s more challenging times: difficulties with friendships, overcoming anxieties and dealing with big changes, such as changes in family circumstances or transitions to new schools. Depending on the difficulty, we can offer activities designed to help such as Time to Talk, Circle of Friends, or Lego Therapy.

Our Learning Mentor is also an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) having trained under an Educational Psychologist.  If your child is struggling with something and you think they may need some extra support, please contact Mrs Bell via email: ebell@fordcombe.kent.sch.uk.