Lisa Seabrook
By Lisa Seabrook & Mark Cullen
Pastoral Manager, Senior Mental Health Lead , part of the Safegurading Team
Lisa Seabrook is an accomplished professional in the field of education and mental health, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to enhancing the wellbeing and development of young people. With a comprehensive career spanning over two decades, Lisa’s extensive experience encompasses working with some of the most vulnerable members of society, particularly those within the looked-after and criminal justice systems. Her current role as Pastoral Manager and Senior Mental Health Lead at Woolston Brook SEMH School showcases her dedication to improving the lives of children with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
Lisa commenced her career in the realm of social care, dedicating five years to working with looked-after children within the Salford Local Authority. This crucial role involved supporting children and young people who had been placed in care due to various circumstances, including familial breakdown, abuse, or neglect. During this period, Lisa developed strong relationships with the children and their families, ensuring that their individual needs were at the forefront of her approach. She embraced the challenges of her position with compassion and resilience, striving to create a sense of stability and security for the young people in her care.
Following her enriching experience in Salford, Lisa transitioned to a role as a senior manager in secure care, where she spent 15 years working with children aged between 10 and 18 years who were navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system. In this capacity, Lisa was responsible for overseeing a team that facilitated the rehabilitation and reintegration of young offenders. She collaborated closely with a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including social workers, psychologists, and educational staff, to deliver targeted interventions that addressed the underlying issues contributing to the young people’s behaviours. Lisa’s leadership was marked by her ability to inspire and guide her team, ensuring that all practitioners were equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to support the children effectively.
In addition to her work within secure care, Lisa broadened her expertise by collaborating with schools' link mental health teams to deliver targeted interventions aimed at improving the mental health and wellbeing of students. Her year-long partnership with these teams furnished her with valuable insights into the educational environment and the myriad challenges faced by young people today. Through the provision of evidence-based interventions, Lisa played a pivotal role in addressing the mental health concerns of students, fostering a culture of openness and support within the school environment.
Presently, Lisa is thriving as the Pastoral Manager and Senior Mental Health Lead at Woolston Brook SEMH School. In this integral position, she has been instrumental in shaping an inclusive and nurturing atmosphere for students who require additional emotional and mental health support. As Pastoral Manager, Lisa works diligently to ensure that every child receives tailored support, addressing both their academic and personal development. Her passion for the wellbeing of students is evident in her holistic approach, which prioritises the emotional health of each child as a foundation for their educational success.
Furthermore, as a member of the safeguarding team, Lisa plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and welfare of the children at Woolston Brook. She conducts regular assessments and provides intervention strategies to address any concerns that arise, safeguarding the most vulnerable students throughout their educational journey. Her commitment to safeguarding children reflects her understanding of the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment where young people can thrive.
Lisa’s contributions extend beyond her immediate roles; she is a respected figure within the educational community. Her commitment to professional development is evident in her efforts to remain abreast of current research and practices in both education and mental health. Lisa actively participates in relevant training and workshops, which enriches her practice and informs her collaborative efforts with colleagues and stakeholders.
Lisa Seabrook’s career serves as an inspiring testament to the impact that dedicated professionals can have on the lives of young people. Her extensive experience in various settings demonstrates her unwavering commitment to promoting the welfare and education of children, particularly those facing adversities. The knowledge and expertise Lisa has cultivated over her two-decade career empower her to make significant contributions to the field of SEMH education. As she continues her work at Woolston Brook SEMH School, Lisa remains a beacon of hope for the children she serves, tirelessly advocating for their futures and wellbeing.