Role of the school and policy implications
Most grieving pupils do not need a ‘bereavement expert’, they need people who care. Schools, just by carrying on with their usual day-to-day activities, while acknowledging the bereavement, can do a huge amount to support a grieving child.
A bereavement policy offers guidance for all staff when dealing with death, grief and bereavement. This helps all members of staff to feel more confident to support a bereaved pupil.
Having a ‘bereavement aware’ culture will ensure that all members of the school community feel supported.