We recognise that the Mental Health and the Wellbeing of our students is of the upmost importance. Therefore Mrs Elton is currently awaiting training for first-aid mental health.

Here in Sixth Form we have an open door policy where students can and do feel that they can talk to any member of the team knowing that their concerns and worries will be listened to in a non-judgmental environment.

The pressure of completing examinations can become overbearing for some students and they can often forget that making time for relaxation and sport will actually increase their productivity and their outcomes.

Over the forthcoming weeks we aim to have both relaxtion sessions, face pack Friday, and switch off fun Friday sessions.

The Basics of Mindfulness Practice

Mindfulness helps us put some space between ourselves and our reactions, breaking down our conditioned responses. Here’s how to tune into mindfulness throughout the day:

1. Set aside some time. You don’t need a meditation cushion or bench, or any sort of special equipment to access your mindfulness skills—but you do need to set aside some time and space.
   
2. Observe the present moment as it is. The aim of mindfulness is not quieting the mind, or attempting to achieve a state of eternal calm. The goal is simple: we’re aiming to pay attention to the present moment, without judgment. Easier said than done, we know.
   
3. Let your judgments roll by. When we notice judgments arise during our practice, we can make a mental note of them, and let them pass.
   
4. Return to observing the present moment as it is. Our minds often get carried away in thought. That’s why mindfulness is the practice of returning, again and again, to the present moment.
   
5. Be kind to your wandering mind. Don’t judge yourself for whatever thoughts crop up, just practice recognizing when your mind has wandered off, and gently bring it back.

If you just need to talk, any time of day or night

Free listening services

These services offer confidential support from trained volunteers. You can talk about anything that’s troubling you, no matter how difficult:

• Call 116 123 to talk to Samaritans, or email: jo@samaritans.org for a reply within 24 hours
• Text “SHOUT” to 85258 to contact the Shout Crisis Text Line, or text “YM” if you’re under 19

If you’re under 19, you can also call 0800 1111 to talk to Childline. The number will not appear on your phone bill.

If students are struggling with their Mental Health, then there a number of agencies prepared to help young adults experiencing difficulties.

Mind.org

https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/seeking-help-for-a-mental-health-problem/where-to-start/

Mentalhealth.org

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/getting-help

Youngminds.org

https://www.youngminds.org.uk/

Kooth.org

https://www.kooth.com/