FINDING OUR WELLBEING RESOURCES: YEAR 11 MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS DAY Before the busy period of exam season started, Year 11 pupils had the opportunity to enjoy a day focusing on resources and approaches to support their mental health and wellbeing, writes Nathalie Whittington
T he day started with a panel discussion and Q&A with expert speakers exploring mental health from a range of perspectives, approaches and experiences. The panel included Dr Josephine Perry, a chartered sport and exercise psychologist; Dami Adebayo OA, a student at the College from 2006 to 2013, now working as a product steward and regulatory affairs chemist; Samantha Dholakia, an executive coach; and Jo Ray, the College Counsellor. Following this, the students went into their selected range of workshops to develop an understanding and experience of the diff- erent resources available to them to support mental health and wellbeing. These included: mindfulness; the Alexander Technique; creative writing; ‘read-laxation’; Lego communication skills; nutrition and cooking; puppy yoga; creative wellbeing through art and design; spiritual wellness; healthy sleep; and planting and eco-wellbeing. The day ended with a focus on the power of music to enhance our wellbeing, with a live performance from a duo that entertained whilst also sharing advice and experiences around performance anxiety, the import- ance of collaboration and support, and finding healthy outlets during demanding times. There was a wonderful atmosphere across the day, and it ended with applause! The aim of the day was to encourage the students to experience the range of resources available to support their wellbeing – many of these will have been new experiences, some perhaps things tried before – as a reminder of what we can be doing, both during times of examinations but also beyond. ◎
Waiting by the Window Alexander Poli (Year 12) Hurry now, October, For I grow weary of the summer’s day. Drape your Arms around me Chill and teasing Like autumn’s laughing breeze. I yearn for your embrace, my love, Lay me to rest among the fallen leaves Let my hair be washed with morning dew And garlanded with sweet chestnuts. Turn your gaze to me, O harvest moon who turns the world to gold, And take me in my entirety. Gild me in that way, I am yours.
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THE ALLEYNIAN 711
WELLBEING
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