It is widely recognised that a child / young person’s emotional health influences their cognitive development & learning as well as their physical & social health, all of which impacts their mental wellbeing in adulthood, in fact, 70% of adult mental health problems have their onset during childhood or adolescence.  

Here at Alec Reed Academy, we keep the mental health and wellbeing of our students at the heart of our school.   It is intrinsically woven into the school ethos and is reflected in all aspects of school life. 

To support our student's mental wellbeing, we have a full-time, qualified and (BACP) Accredited School Counsellor / Play Therapist who provides 1:1 counselling sessions, we offer an anxiety programme as well as an art therapy group. Several of our staff members are trained Mental Health First Aiders, a number of our students are Mental Health Ambassadors, and we are currently embarking on a training programme for Student Wellbeing Ambassadors. 

We hold regular assemblies promoting all aspects of mental wellbeing and publish features on mental health in the school newsletter.  There are several tabs on the left which allow you to access further information on a range of mental health and wellbeing issues. 

If you are concerned about your child's mental health, please contact your child’s year group SaFE Worker or Julie can be reached on Julie.Bockling@Alecreedacademy.co.uk 

'Comparison is the Thief of Joy'

Anyone who knows me or has attended any of my assemblies, will know that I am not a fan of Social Media, (some might say I bang on about it too much) but this school holiday I would really like to encourage you to give your mental health a treat and step away from the socials.

Easter is a time of renewal, hope, and fresh beginnings. As nature awakens with the arrival of spring so too does the blossoming trees and spring flowers, it’s a reminder that each flower blooms in its own time and that we too, must embrace change at our own pace.

Social media can make us feel like we’re constantly racing to keep up. Scrolling through carefully curated posts can lead to comparison, self-doubt, and the pressure to meet unrealistic expectations, over time this can open the door to anxiety, self doubt or even depression.  Without realising it, we can get caught in a cycle of feeling “behind” or “not enough” especially when we measure our own journey against unrealistic online portrayals.

But just like the flowers that bloom when they’re ready, personal growth cannot be rushed. This Easter give yourself a break from the noise of social media, reflect on your own journey, focus on what truly matters, and embrace the fresh start this season offers.

Try these 3 practical tips for a healthier break:

• Identify what truly matters to you, rather than chasing external validation.

• Recognise the illusion....... life isn’t a constant highlight reel. Just as trees change with the seasons, everyone’s journey looks different.

• Social media algorithms trap us in cycles of self-doubt. Reset your feed by following content that uplifts and inspires you.

Julie Bockling  

Exam Stress 

Kooth has created a 14 minute video that provides practical tips and strategies for managing exam stress. The video below covers various techniques for staying calm, focusing, and maintaining a healthy mindset throughout the exam period.