The Elephant’s Tea Party was the brainchild of Child Bereavement UK patrons and bereaved parents, Paul and Louise Woodbridge. 

We know from when our children went back to school after their brother and sister had died, what a huge difference the sensitive support of friends and teachers could make. We want Elephant’s Tea Party to help schools talk about the often difficult subject of death in a normal way, so that everyone has a better idea of what to say and do when someone is grieving. We also want everyone to enjoy the Elephant’s Tea Party and have loads of fun!

- Louise, bereaved mother

Using creative exercises, lesson plans and fun activities, underpinned by support, experience and guidance from Child Bereavement UK, Elephant’s Tea Party gives staff the resources to help pupils explore the subjects of death and grief in an age-appropriate, straightforward and accessible way.  

It helps teachers give children the emotional literacy and life skills needed to equip them for bereavement now, and in later life.  Why not end with a tea party fundraising event for all to enjoy?

The first Elephant’s Tea Party took place in June 2013, and we invite schools to sign up throughout the academic year and run activities as and when it fits into their schedule.

We had a traumatic bereavement in my school which was devastating; it was very upsetting for staff and pupils. At that time, I didn’t know where to turn for advice and support. If only I’d had known about Child Bereavement UK and these resources, things would have been a little easier to cope with. I think Child Bereavement UK’s Elephant’s Tea Party campaign is a great way to help introduce a difficult subject in a non-threatening, accessible way to prepare children for life.

- Allan Brown, Head Teacher, Southrop CofE Primary School

Sign up to download this free resource for your school  

Child Bereavement UK would like to thank Paul & Louise who kindly helped fund the development of Elephant’s Tea Party in memory of their twins, Betsy and William.