Hackney New School’s head teacher Lesley Falconer met with HRH The Duchess of Cambridge when she collected an award for the school’s commitment to pupil’s wellbeing.

Hackney Gazette: Jayne Voice, xxxx and head teacher Lesley Falconer picking up the awardJayne Voice, xxxx and head teacher Lesley Falconer picking up the award (Image: Archant)

The secondary school in Kingland Road was picked for the School Community Secondary Award from Place2Be, of which Kate is a Royal patron.

A team of professional counsellors and therapists from Place2Be work at the school to build strong links with students, staff and parents to help develop a ‘mentally healthy’ ethos there.

The school was nominated as the charity felt it places significant importance on students’ wellbeing at school and in the wider community.

Mrs Falconer said: “At HNS we have high ambitions for all our students. These challenges often require a great deal of support and having Place2Be as an integral part of the school ensures students and staff see emotional wellbeing as essential to a fulfilled life.

“I am delighted that all our hard work on the wellbeing of our students and families has been recognised.”