At HCH we believe that our students’ wellbeing and an emotionally supportive environment are the foundation of school life and their learning journey. That’s why we have 21 trained Student Mental Champions who have introduced their own fantastic initiatives to support fellow students. These include our “Recharge Room” a relaxing space complete with comfortable pink beanbags where students can relax with calming activities such as origami, bracelet making and mindfulness colouring. They also motivated to bring in Leo, our school wellbeing dog and are introducing a school “wellbeing walk” trail through our beautiful grounds on the edge of Bushy Park.
Mental Health Awareness week was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our focus on wellbeing and mental health and remind our students of the support they have at HCH throughout the year from their peers, through to staff members and our onsite Place2Be counsellor when required.
Community and kindness was the theme of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week at HCH. The senior school assembly focused on how we thrive when we have strong connections with other people, and the importance of supportive communities that remind us that we are not alone. Pupils watched a short film about the way in which communities can provide a sense of belonging, safety, and support in hard times, and give us a sense of purpose.
During the week, the Mental Health Champions offered creative reflective activities in the Recharge Room, spoke with pupils, and displayed posters around school. In form time, students watched a film about how performing arts and creative activities can improve mental health.
The Mental Health Foundation has been leading Mental Health Awareness Week since 2021 – bringing the UK together to focus on having good mental health. Human connection is one of the pillars of good mental health. Physical health, exercise and having good sleep are others.
