Wakefield Snapethorpe Primary School



Learning Mentors

Some children often face challenges which can make school and/or home life difficult for them. These challenges can present as social & emotional difficulties. Some children can struggle to regulate and make sense of their overwhelming emotions. It may be that a child finds it hard to make friends or maintain their friendships. It might be that a child has experienced a great loss and they need some support and guidance through their thoughts and feelings. It could be that they simply need the opportunity to talk.We as Learning Mentors, aim to provide calming and therapeutic support, through weekly 30 minute sessions. We each have our own space, where we work with children 1:1 or sometimes for group interventions. Each child is thought about individually. A plan is put into place, specifically designed to guide them through their challenges, with the end goal being to make changes for the better. Our children thrive most when at their happiest and safest – we hope our intervention can really help them feel this way.   

Mrs J Senior-White

"I’m Mrs Jade Senior-White, one of the Learning Mentors at Snapethorpe Primary School.I have spent 6 years here at Snapethorpe, working with a range of children from all year groups.I began working in schools at the age of 17, when I became an apprentice teaching assistant in a specialist provision. This is definitely where my enthusiasm for working with children sparked. Since then, I have gained much more experience and knowledge. For 5 years, I was based in a Nurture Room, creating a safe and welcoming base to help children with social and emotional challenges.I continue to strive for development in all areas of my own learning. I have become a Mental Health First Aider, I have trained in Bereavement and Loss and also have extensive training in Play Therapy. By continuing to better myself, I can ensure that my time working with children really makes a difference". 

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Miss Whittell

"My name is Miss Whittell and I have worked at Snapethorpe Primary School for 10 years. I started the role as Learning Mentor in September 2021.
I work closely with children to help them understand, manage, and express their emotions in healthy and positive ways. I provide tailored one‑to‑one and small‑group support focused on developing emotional literacy, resilience, self‑regulation, and positive behaviour. Through targeted interventions, practical strategies, and a nurturing approach, I help pupils recognise their feelings, identify triggers, build coping skills, and develop confidence both in and out of the classroom.
I am trained as a Mental Health First Aider and have attended courses on Low Mood in Children, EBSA, Bereavement and Loss, as well as supporting children with anxiety.
I enjoy being a Learning Mentor because I get to support children emotionally and help them grow in confidence. I love building positive relationships and helping them understand their feelings. Seeing their progress and knowing I’ve made a difference is the best part of my job."