Programmes implemented by local schools to benefit their pupil’s mental well-being

There are various aspects that can affect the overall well-being of a learner, from anxiety, to burnout, to fears they may face. It is therefore important a school be able to aid towards the mental health needs of a child.

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It’s at school that children spend most of their time, and it is there that they need to know their mental health is a priority, all while equally giving room for the holistic well-being of their peers.

Throughout the years, schools have made sure to implement programmes that cater to the growth and confidence a learner will need to face challenges they may encounter, both at home and within the school.

Programmes implemented by local schools to benefit the mental well-being of their learners:

For De La Salle Holy Cross College they provide wellness support for the entire school community through wellness centres, which they say aim to assist in achieving a sense of holistic well-being: socially, behaviourally, emotionally, and psychologically. Combined, it’s junior and high school have a team of 14 specialists, as well as a wide range of specialised onsite services, such as educational psychologists, a social worker, and academic support specialists.

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At Crossroads School, its therapy department is intrinsic to the holistic offering of their remedial intervention. Through it, the school says it strives to work in collaboration with caregivers, to create the support structures needed for the children. The department is said to provide services based on an individual assessment and the specific needs of each learner attending. In 2023, they introduced a new model of intervention, incorporating joint input from the speech therapist, occupational therapist, and teacher, called SPOTT therapy, which provides a further opportunity for the integration of therapy and curriculum. In addition to this, they also launched a pilot therapeutic boxing programme, in partnership with Fight with Insight. The programme’s clear benefits in fostering safe and inclusive spaces for children and adolescents to develop physical, socio-emotional, and cognitive skills have led to its permanent inclusion in the school’s offerings.

Northwest Christian School has a team of dedicated professionals to support the diverse needs of their learners. They house occupational therapists who work from a therapy room. They also have a qualified speech therapist and a skilled remedial teacher on staff.

Wellness at Auckland Park Preparatory School is very important. For years they have implemented a comprehensive wellness programme. Through this programme learners delve into topics like mindfulness, self-regulation, healthy eating habits, and stress management, which is meant to equip them with practical tools to navigate their academic and personal lives.

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