Wellbeing in the classroom gets good results
Introducing classes in wellbeing alongside traditional subjects could have a significant impact on mental health in schools, a new study reveals.
Young people could benefit significantly from having wellbeing classes scheduled alongside maths, science and English lessons, a recent study by Nuffield Health suggests.
The two-year pilot scheme introduced a dedicated member of staff to teach the pupils of an Oxfordshire secondary school about mental health and wellbeing.
Headteacher of Wood Green Secondary School, Robert Shadbolt, described the programme as a success, and plans to add a regular wellbeing class to the school’s curriculum.
The study revealed all 11 year-groups who participated reported improvements in their energy levels, feelings of relaxation, as well as students’ confidence in their ability to deal with problems. Students also consumed more fruit (48%) and vegetables (59%) on average than they had prior to the classes.
Pupils weren’t the only ones to benefit from the introduction of wellbeing to their curriculum. Teachers at Wood Green also showed a significant increase in wellbeing, as well as fruit (7%) and vegetable (13%) consumption as a result of the study.
As part of the introduction of compulsory mental health education in (English) schools from September 2020, classes on building mental resilience and wellbeing are expected to be included alongside teaching young people how to recognise the signs that they or others are struggling with their mental health.
From an article in Happiful Magazine
