Key Points – Recognising bereavement is for life
- There is no time limit on grief and a bereaved pupil will continue to grieve for life.
- As pupils grow up, their understanding matures and they will have questions about the death and the person who died.
- Sharing bereavement information with subsequent teachers and schools is important.
- Consider school activities or areas of the curriculum which may make a bereaved pupil feel vulnerable – try to prepare them in advance, where possible.
- Check how they are managing their grief and review strategies.
- Be aware that the pupil may try to ‘mask’ their feelings.
Reflective practice – Managing grief
How would you respond? What do you think these pupils need? What strategies could be put in place?
- A pupil unexpectedly bursts into tears during your lesson.
- A pupil tells you that their dad died a year ago today.
- A pupil kicks a chair over and punches the table.