Alleyn’s Hosts ASSIST Workshop to Enhance Pastoral Care Skills

May 23rd 2025

In a meaningful step toward enhancing the support available to young people in crisis, Alleyn’s was honoured to host the Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASSIST) workshop for the first time. This event brought together pastoral leaders from across the local educational community, united by a shared commitment to safeguarding the wellbeing of all pupils

The workshop welcomed a diverse group of pastoral leaders, including Heads of Houses and Heads of Sections from Alleyn’s, alongside colleagues from James Allen’s Girls’ School (JAGS), Dulwich College, Trinity Brixton, and Alleyn’s Hampstead. Their presence underscored the vital importance of collaborative approaches to mental health support within schools.

Led by Shelagh Willis, a respected independent safeguarding consultant and trainer and, Sam Madden, Senior Deputy Head at Alleyn’s School and one of the first teachers in the region accredited to deliver ASSIST training, the two-day workshop was an invaluable opportunity for professional development and reflection.

ASSIST is an internationally recognised evidence-based programme designed to empower participants to identify signs of suicide risk and to intervene effectively to keep them safe until professional help is available. The training is highly specialised, and it is rare for a school to host this workshop or have staff accredited to deliver it, making this event a significant milestone in Alleyn’s ongoing commitment to pastoral care.

Through a series of guided, interactive sessions, participants developed the confidence and practical tools to engage in potentially life-saving conversations. Topics included recognising warning signs, approaching discussions around suicide with sensitivity, and responding effectively in moments of acute need.

The impact of the workshop extended beyond the development of individual skillsets; it also served to strengthen the network of support both within and between local schools. Among participants, there was a shared sense of purpose and a deepening recognition of the critical importance of mental health and suicide prevention within educational settings.

We remain dedicated to providing the highest standard of pastoral care at Alleyn’s and look forward to continuing to work with other pastoral leaders in supporting the wellbeing of ever pupil entrusted to our care.

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