Death is a subject that nobody ever wants to address. It is almost inevitable that at some point in every teacher’s career, the school community will be affected by a death in some way. This could be the death of a pupil, the death of a member of staff, the death of a pupil’s family member or the death of a key person in the school community such as a governor or popular visitor to the school.
There are many reactions to bereavement which may include withdrawal, distress, apathy, tears, panic, aggressive behaviour, anxiety, and fear. This stress can manifest itself in unexpected ways, such as nervous giggling, stoical bravery, atypical aggression, clowning, or denial - all of these types of behaviour are normal grief reactions. The child may also become extremely tired, to the point of exhaustion, as so much energy goes into dealing with the loss.
School Staff Presentation
Simon Says can come to your school to talk, advise and support the staff on the sensitive issues surrounding bereavement. Simon Says will be able to advise the school on a wide range of issues, which will include:
- How to talk to a pupil(s) about death
- Childrens Age and Understanding of death
- Child Bereavement Charter
- Breaking the news to the school community
- Behaviour issues
- Memorial activities
If you are interested in booking a presentation please ring the office on 023 8064 7550, email: info@simonsays.org.uk or download the booking form.
School Children Classroom Presentation
Simon Says understand that it can be difficult for a teacher to talk to a class of pupils about death, and can come to your school to run a session on bereavement in an interactive and informative session.
If you are interested in a Classroom Presentation please ring the office on 023 8064 7550 or email: info@simonsays.org.uk to request further information.
“Death neither obeys the school timetable nor appears on it...it enters the classroom without knocking”.