Viking Primary in Ealing has been commended for its commitment to children’s mental health this World Mental Health Day.

The school has been named a finalist in the Wellbeing in Schools Awards, organised by children’s mental health charity Place2Be and supported by The Garfield Weston Foundation.

Schools working with Place2Be were invited to nominate inspiring ambassadors who have shown a remarkable commitment to championing children and young people’s mental health.

Two finalists from Viking Primary were selected from almost 100 entries, and will attend a prestigious awards ceremony at Mansion House in London on November 22, where the winners will be announced.

Place2Be school-based counsellor, Angela Shepherd, was nominated thanks to her ability to make it easy for everyone in the school community to talk and for being a great role model.

Sue Styring, who works alongside Angela, has volunteered with Place2Be for an impressive twelve years.

She was nominated because of her outstanding commitment, which has demonstrated her passionate support of pupils’ mental health.

Jamie Maloy, head teacher at Viking Primary School said: “Without the Place2Be service in my school we would struggle to meet the needs of our learners and prepare them for life beyond primary school.

“My school-based counsellor Angela leads a talented team in a difficult catchment area, and has built a strong school and community links.

“Sue, just one of our volunteer counsellors, is integral in providing the high quality support we have come to expect from Place2Be.

“It is fantastic validation that both our entrants to this year’s awards have become finalists”

Angela, Place2Be school-based counsellor at Viking Primary School, said: “Learning I was a finalist felt similar to hearing I was being nominated.

“Shocked, excited, embarrassed, yet proud. I love my job, my project and my school. I feel very humbled when I think of the awards and some of the vulnerable children we work with.”

Sue, a Place2Be volunteer counsellor at Viking Primary School said: “I have always felt appreciated by Place2Be but to be recognised in this way goes far beyond expectation.

“On hearing that I was a finalist, I was at first completely overwhelmed but at the same time I felt absolutely delighted, honoured and proud.”