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It is important that before teaching about issues like mental health and emotional wellbeing, clear ‘ground-rules’  are established or reinforced and the concepts of confidentiality and anonymity covered at the start of the lesson. Ground rules need to be consistently adhered to, regularly revisited and, if necessary, renegotiated and reinforced. The teacher should lead the way by modelling the ground rules in their own communications with the class. 

Where time allows, ground-rules are most effective when they have been negotiated and agreed with the pupils, rather than imposed by the teacher. 

For further guidance about negotiating ground rules and the use of distancing techniques please download our resource “Handling sensitive or controversial issues through PSHE education”.