All About SEMH: A Practical Guide for Secondary Teachers (All About SEND)

An advanced continuation from the Primary edition of the book, This handbook really is a one stop shop for teaching staff who are continually being asked to support incredibly and increasing complex needs, In secondary the impact is generally seen on a much more impactful behavioral level and this looks at this as well and starts to explore the complex nervous system responses that can present.The chapters offer not only an easy to comprehend run downs of the various areas of SEMH that may present, but also case studies, tools and tip, and further reading, both at the Childs' level and further research. With some great guidance on whole school mapping.its exactly what it says , a 'practical guide' for those having these concerns added to workload yet with minimal training offered.

“All about SEMH: A Practical Guide for Secondary Teachers” is the companion to the book for primary teachers. The introduction begins by describing Sarah’s own journey into education, definitions of SEMH, and the context of national and international policies. The book quickly delves into a range of topics, including anxiety, depression, bereavement, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, drug use, sexualised behaviours, and exploitation. Sarah provides a number of case studies which encourage the reader to reflect more deeply on the child’s presentation and their own interpretations of behaviour. She also outlines various strategies which are simple and practical. These include recognising signs of a change in wellbeing, adapting instructions and seating plans, supporting executive functioning, and maintaining a balance between routine and flexibility. There is also guidance on safeguarding and risk management, and signposts to additional resources. Sarah’s book is a valuable addition to the literature on SEMH and will help to flip the narrative about the challenges which children face in the education system.

Loved this book written by Sarah, she has a great balance of knowledge and practical aspects for very busy teachers. This guide is a must have and easy to pick up and run with changes to support young people.Another brilliant book by the very knowledgeable Sarah Johnson.Krupa

Sarah explains clearly and simply the terms used and the key areas around social, emotional mental health (SEMH). Using her own experience, research based definitions and relatable case studies Sarah enables the reader to increase their own understanding and learn strategies to support pupils in class. I would recommend this book to both newly qualified school staff and experienced teachers & SENCOs.

This book is invaluable. With the increase in students with SEMH needs being identified and the increase in suspension and exclusion of students who have such needs every teacher needs to support SEMH students better. This guide for secondary teachers helpfully breaks down different diagnoses and suggests ways to support individuals. I have found myself turning to it again and again as a resource. Highly recommended.

Easy to read and understand. Very well written and interesting.Great author.

As a dyslexia specialist, I initially approached these books out of professional curiosity rather than need—but how wrong I was! These guides offer clear, accessible information and practical strategies to support a broad range of social, emotional, and mental health needs, making them essential additions to any educator's library. Sarah’s style is highly readable; she combines authority and compassion to bring us these compact yet remarkably comprehensive books. Through insightful case studies and the voices of children, young people, and parents, she enables readers to empathise and apply the strategies in real situations . I thoroughly recommend these books for anyone involved in working with children and young people. Thank you Sarah.

This is a fantastic first step towards understanding the many aspects of SEMH behaviour. It provides many useful strategies to be able to deal with the behaviour day to day, with good signposts on where to go next. This lives on my professional development shelf at school!