The corridors of The Wilnecote School were alive with colour and conversation today as the school community culminated a week of activities to mark World Mental Health Day. The school’s local theme, ‘let’s create a positive vibe’, drove a focused effort to promote awareness, self-care, and support.

Embracing the colour yellow, promoted by YOUNG MINDS, the day began with a wave of cheerful engagement. As pupils arrived, school staff were stationed in the Atrium handing out yellow ribbons and stickers to encourage a visual show of support. Many pupils and staff readily sported these symbols, setting an encouraging and upbeat tone for the day. Posters reinforcing the message of support were prominently displayed across the school grounds.

Assemblies and Extensive Pastoral Care

Throughout the week, Mr Brett delivered assemblies that successfully raised awareness, focusing specifically on developing self-help and resilience skills. A core message repeated was that it is crucial for pupils to know it is ‘ok not to be ok’ and that experiencing sadness or anxiety is a normal part of life.

The school’s robust support system remains key. Pupils are well-informed on where to go for help, relying on the ‘ace’ support of the Pastoral Team and Form Tutors.

Mrs. Taylor, Student Support Manager, said: “The turnout for the yellow ribbon campaign has been fantastic. Our priority, as always, is ensuring every pupil knows we are here for them. It’s vital they feel safe talking about their feelings, and the visible support from all our staff—including Poppy from the Mental Health Team, our First Aiders, and the Nurse Drop-In—shows our commitment to nurturing the well-being of the whole Wilnecote community.”

This work is consistently supported by ongoing PHSE lessons and assemblies throughout the academic year, which encourage open talk and understanding of mental health issues.

A Calm Space in the Library

The School Library provided a dedicated safe and calm place for pupils seeking a moment of peace. Beyond the opportunity to select books, the Library was a setting for well-being activities, including jigsaws and games, or simply a place to ‘just breathe’.

To stimulate open conversation about life and happiness, some pupils also had the chance to make a ‘ChatterBox’, an interactive activity designed to get them talking. These sessions build upon the Wellbeing and friendship sessions that take place throughout the school year.

Parents are encouraged to take a look at the school website’s Wellbeing page for more information and resources. The Wilnecote School’s activities have successfully underscored the commitment of the entire community to supporting mental wellbeing and fostering a culture of openness and care.