Welcome to Hamish & Milo Creating a Culture of Wellbeing for our SEN Pupils!
Hamish & Milo offers a comprehensive range of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) and Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) intervention programs, training, and an innovative impact dashboard. Our mission is to provide primary-aged children with the framework, language, and content for courageous conversations about mental health and emotions, enabling them to develop emotional literacy skills and thrive in both life and learning.
Our complete wellbeing program enhances Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education by focusing on ten key emotional themes, including friendship, resilience, anxiety, diversity, strong emotions and anger, change and transition, conflict resolution, loss and bereavement, sadness, and self-esteem. These resources are designed to support children’s emotional development comprehensively.
The Story Behind Hamish & Milo: Therapeutic Pets Providing Support
Hamish & Milo was founded by Clare Williams, a primary teacher, educational psychotherapist, advisor, and trainer, and Anne Waddicor, a corporate designer, and communications expert. As friends and neighbors for over 20 years, they shared their experiences and adventures with their children. Recognising the need for greater support for children struggling with mental health, emotional development, and wellbeing, Clare and Anne set out to create a wellbeing resource.
Their inspiration came from the comfort and unconditional care provided by their pets, especially during confusing or overwhelming times. They realised the power of pets in supporting emotional well-being, and this became the heart of their work together. Thus, Hamish & Milo was born—a resource dedicated to enhancing the emotional literacy of primary-aged children, helping them feel valued, special, and cared for.
Hamish & Milo Voyager – Enhancing Wellbeing in Education
Introduction to Hamish & Milo Voyager
Hamish & Milo Voyager, accredited with the prestigious ‘Level 3 Wellbeing in Education Award’ by NCFE, is an advanced Continuous Professional Development (CPD) program specifically designed for Hamish & Milo Champions. This course aims to enhance the theoretical and contextual understanding of staff facilitating the Hamish & Milo Intervention for groups of children in schools. It is particularly beneficial for pastoral staff including:
- Teaching Assistants (TAs)
- Emotional Literacy Support Assistants (ELSAs)
- Nurture Leads
- Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs)
Voyager offers comprehensive ELSA resources that help Emotional Literacy Support Assistants (ELSAs) to effectively support children’s social and emotional development. The curriculum of Voyager is deeply embedded in the themes of the Hamish & Milo programme, intertwining theoretical concepts that provide a broader context for children’s social and emotional health and wellbeing.
Course Authors and Trainers
- Clare Williams: Author of Hamish & Milo Wellbeing Resources
- Andrea Middleton: Hamish & Milo Lead Consultant
Course Overview
This accredited course features direct teaching presentations, group tasks and discussions, mentoring, and assessment tasks. The course is structured into three comprehensive units:
- Unit One: Early emotional development and the foundations of mental health and wellbeing.
- Unit Two: Early childhood adversity and the protective factors that support social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development, mental health, and wellbeing.
- Unit Three: Integrating self-awareness and theoretical learning into developing and supporting educational wellbeing in practice.
Participants, known as Champions, will receive a Learning Journal to document their journey, along with a Reflection & Assessment Journal for self-reflection and work-based tasks. Ongoing assessment by trainers, mentoring through group activities, discussions, and optional recommended readings are integral parts of the course.
Key Benefits
- Enhanced Professional Development: Recognition of professional development through a Level 3 Award endorsed by NCFE, AAL, and Hamish & Milo.
- Comprehensive Learning: A holistic approach to understanding and supporting children’s social and emotional development.
- Expert Guidance: Learn from experienced authors and trainers Clare Williams and Andrea Middleton.
- Specialized ELSA Resources: Gain access to high-quality resources specifically designed for Emotional Literacy Support Assistants.
Course Details
- Assessment: Continuous assessment through various tasks and journals.
- Dates: Available for the 2024-2025 academic year.
- Cost and Booking: Please contact us for detailed information on course fees and booking procedures.
Upon completion of the Voyager program, participants will be awarded an accreditation certificate, celebrating their achievement and professional growth.
Contact Information
For any questions regarding the course content, please email Clare Williams at [email protected].
By participating in Hamish & Milo Voyager, you join a dedicated community committed to fostering wellbeing in education and making a significant impact on children’s social and emotional development. Explore our extensive ELSA resources to support your role as an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant and enhance your professional skills.
