When wellbeing is prioritised, pupils are more likely to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. Staff are also more likely to be engaged and productive, and the school culture becomes more positive and supportive.

There are many ways to support wellbeing throughout your school. Here are a few inspiring ideas:

1. Create a whole-school approach to wellbeing.

This means making wellbeing a priority at all levels of the school, from the classroom to the playground to the staffroom. It also means involving everyone in the school community, including pupils, staff, parents, and governors.

To create a whole-school approach to wellbeing, you could:

• Develop a wellbeing policy or strategy.
• Set up a wellbeing committee with representatives from all stakeholders.
• Provide training for staff on wellbeing and mental health.
• Create a culture of openness and acceptance around wellbeing issues.

2. Teach pupils about wellbeing.

It is important for pupils to learn about wellbeing and how to take care of their mental and emotional health from a young age. This can be done through formal lessons, as well as through informal activities such as assemblies, workshops, and mentoring programs.

To teach pupils about wellbeing, you could:

• Use the RSHE curriculum to teach pupils about mental health and wellbeing.
• Invite speakers into school to talk to pupils about wellbeing.
• Implement wellbeing programs such as mindfulness or circle time.
• Train staff on how to talk to pupils about wellbeing issues.

3. Support staff wellbeing.

Staff wellbeing is essential for a positive school culture. Staff members who are happy and healthy are more likely to be engaged and productive.

To support staff wellbeing, you could:

• Provide staff with opportunities for professional development and growth.
• Create a supportive and collaborative work environment with techniques such as ‘Monday Moan’, where teachers are encouraged to have a little vent about something that’s annoying them, without anyone offering advice or suggestions – just as a way to get the annoyance off their chest.
• Offer staff access to wellbeing resources and support services.
• Promote a healthy work-life balance by providing on-demand CPD training, so staff can choose when to access the training at a time that suits them, without having the expectation of staying late on a day chosen by the school.

By taking some of these steps, you start to create a school where everyone feels supported, valued, and able to thrive. Remember, every little bit helps. By prioritising wellbeing, you can make a big difference in the lives of your pupils, staff, and the wider school community.

Additional ideas for supporting wellbeing throughout your school:

• Create a wellbeing garden or outdoor space where pupils and staff can relax and de-stress.
• Set up a pupil-led wellbeing committee to generate ideas and initiatives to support the wellbeing of their peers.
• Partner with local organisations to provide pupils and staff with access to additional resources and support.
• Celebrate successes and achievements, both big and small.
• Create a culture of gratitude and appreciation.