Our "Outstanding" pastoral care now has a shared vision around improving mental health of all as a basis for improved teacher performance and pupil academic achievement. Teachers have accessed BUPA Wellbeing for Educators training focusing on their energy levels and identifying 'red flags', becoming role models through termly well-being CPD sessions.
For students, support mechanisms have been enhanced through the introduction of self-help cognitive behaviour strategies such as COPE and Get Exam Fit. In tutor times and on PSHE days, pupils have learnt about self-care with workshops on sleep, diet and positive thoughts. As part of a wider UK-based Well Schools community, other schemes include active form times and Mi Move as a basis to ‘spark’ the brain in readiness for learning.
Exercise is a powerful depression and anxiety fighter for several reasons. Most importantly, it promotes all kinds
of changes in the brain, including neural growth, reduced inflammation, and new activity patterns
that promote feelings of calm and well-being. It also releases endorphins, powerful chemicals in
your brain that energize your spirits and make you feel good. Finally, exercise can also serve as a
distraction, allowing you to find some quiet time to break out of the cycle of negative thoughts that
feed depression.
