Wellbeing encapsulates the holistic development of children, nurturing their emotional, social, and mental makeup. As teachers, parents, and guardians, it’s paramount to foster environments where children not only learn but also thrive.

Wellbeing plays a vital role in the shaping of our children’s future.

Creating Safe and Supportive Environments

At the core of promoting wellbeing lies the creation of safe and supportive environments within our school. These environments serve as the foundations where children feel valued, respected, and included. From the moment each member of our school community steps onto the school grounds, each person will feel a sense of belonging and acceptance. This begins with fostering positive relationships among children, teachers, and staff, where open communication and empathy flourish.

Emotional Literacy and Self-Awareness

Equipping children with emotional literacy and self-awareness tools is instrumental in their journey towards wellbeing. Through activities such as mindfulness practices, prayer writing, and group discussions, children can develop a deeper understanding of their emotions and learn healthy ways to express and manage them. By nurturing these skills from a young age, we empower the children at St Mary and St Thomas Aquinas to navigate the complexities of their emotions with confidence and resilience.

Promoting Social Connection and Empathy

Connections with one another can lies at the heart of wellbeing, and at St Mary and St Thomas Aquinas children learn to build relationships and cultivate empathy. Encouraging collaborative learning experiences and promoting inclusive practices are essential in nurturing a sense of community within our school. By celebrating diversity and encouraging kindness, we instil values that lay the groundwork for a more compassionate society.

Prioritising Mental Health and Wellbeing Education

Mental health challenges are becoming increasingly prevalent in today’s society, and it is so important that we here at St Mary and St Thomas Aquinas prioritise mental health and wellbeing education within our primary school. By integrating age-appropriate lessons on topics such as stress management, resilience-building, and seeking help when needed, we equip our children with the tools to navigate life’s ups and downs with confidence. Additionally, when needed, providing access to mental health resources and support services ensures that children receive the assistance they require to flourish.

Teamwork for Long-lasting Change

Creating a healthy environment in our school needs everyone to join hands. Teachers, parents, caregivers, and the whole community must work together. By doing so we make safe and supportive spaces, teaching children about emotions, helping them

make friends, teaching about mental health, and letting them play, we can set the stage for our Stella children to grow into strong, caring, and successful adults.