Sybil Elgar School supported the Mental Health Foundation for Mental Health Awareness Week, which took place from 11 – 17 May. The theme was “Action”, with an emphasis on taking action to support people towards feeling empowered and hopeful. Throughout the week, pupils, students and staff took part in a range of wellbeing activities across the school. 

Pupil voice and taking action 

Our school councillors met during student committee meetings on both the Havelock Road and Woodlands sites. They discussed ideas for Mental Health Awareness Week, which included kindness activities, calming strategies, sensory relaxation, creative tasks, music, yoga and stretching, outdoor learning, gardening, nature walks, healthy cooking and games. The student committee teams also created posters to help raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing across the school.  

Supporting wellbeing through meaningful activities 

The aim of many of the activities suggested by the pupils and students is to provide opportunities for positive and creative self-expression. This included art, movement, dance and “act the feeling” games. Time outdoors and calm sensory activities were also offered.  

The Mental Health Foundation encourages people to take action for themselves, for others and for their local communities. At school, this can be witnessed by moments of showing kindness, spending time in nature, moving our bodies and having opportunity to share ideas together as a group. 

These activities help pupils and students build confidence, communication skills and emotional awareness. We want our young people to feel supported and take positive steps towards independence and wellbeing.