The Teach Portsmouth Awards 2025 celebrated school and college staff who have introduced innovative practices and strategies to support their pupils.

Sharon Hartt and Jasmine Hewett at Highbury Primary School won the wellbeing award for their work in supporting bereaved families. This new award category showcased those who have implemented health and wellbeing schemes to support their communities. 

My Happy Mind sponsored the award category and has offered an annual subscription to the winning school.

We spoke to Sharon and Jasmine to learn more about their journey into education, their passion for wellbeing and what this award means to them. 

Congratulations on winning the wellbeing award. What does it mean to win?

Being nominated was an honour in itself, but winning was an unexpected and truly delightful surprise. It's incredibly fulfilling to have the work I'm passionate about being recognised in this way.

Sharon and Jasmine

Could you talk more about your work to support bereaved families and where this started?

I've always supported families through bereavement, but working with Simon Says really brought everything together.

It gave more adults the knowledge and skills to help, with a clear process that everyone understands. The support from our headteacher and deputy headteacher has been amazing. The training has contributed to the caring ethos and culture of our Highbury community.

Families know who we are and how to reach us. Jasmine has also played a key role in this work, bringing her own experience and compassion to the team. 

There seems to be some natural synergies between wellbeing and your role within the pastoral team. How did your career in education begin?

My journey in education began in 2001, inspired by my eldest daughter starting school. I enrolled in a family learning course and quickly discovered a deep passion for working with children.

I began as a teaching assistant, and my role has grown from there. I'm now the mental health lead, pastoral lead, and part of the safeguarding team. I'm currently enjoying my 24th year at Highbury Primary School.

Jasmine trained at college to work in a school and began her placement at Highbury Primary School when she was just 17.

She's also a former pupil, which makes her connection to the school even stronger. She started as a teaching assistant and has always been passionate about progressing in her role. Her dedication and the relationships she's built with the children have shaped the work she does today, and she thoroughly enjoys it. 

On this journey of wellbeing, you have involved the whole school community. How has this changed your workplace?

Highbury Primary School is a caring community. Visitors often comment on how welcoming and friendly we are. Mrs Watson, our headteacher, and Mrs James, our deputy headteacher greet families every morning.

We hope our families feel they can come and speak to us at any time. Jasmine and I both work hard to make sure that warmth and openness are felt throughout the school. 

What impact has winning the wellbeing award and receiving a free one-year subscription to My Happy Mind have on your school?

As we already use My Happy Mind, we're hoping to upgrade to My Happy Mind Plus for a year. It's already a big part of our school curriculum, and parents have access to the app too. It fits perfectly with our school values and ethos.

At Highbury Primary School, we champion a proactive approach to nurturing children's mental and emotional resilience, and Jasmine is a strong advocate for this across her work with pupils. 

What lessons have you learnt in implementing this initiative in your school?

Implementing wellbeing support in a school requires a whole-school approach—creating a positive environment and providing support for children, staff, and families.

It's also about integrating wellbeing into the curriculum and daily routines, like with My Happy Mind. Jasmine and I have learned that consistency and collaboration are key. 

What advice would you give to other schools looking to strengthen their pastoral and wellbeing support?

Be clear in your communication and create a supportive environment. Hold regular meetings and offer opportunities for professional development.

Working with charities like Simon Says brings valuable knowledge and expertise that can be shared across the school, ensuring the best support for staff, children, and families. 

"Jasmine and I firmly believe that strong, trusting relationships are the foundation of effective wellbeing support."

Sharon and Jasmine

Lastly, where will you be putting your trophy?

Mine is at home on my shelf. Jasmine has hers proudly displayed on the cabinet in her living room.