Students champion mental health initiative at WGS

In a significant step towards promoting mental health awareness, 32 students at WGS have successfully completed their training to become Student Mental Health Champions. The students voluntarily dedicated their free time to learn essential skills in listening, providing peer support, and offering guidance to professional resources when needed.

These newly trained champions will now lead various initiatives within the school, aiming to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. Their upcoming projects include assemblies and campaigns designed to create a more open, supportive environment for discussing mental wellbeing.

As part of ongoing efforts to enhance mental health support, senior students have recently been introduced to Kooth, an online platform offering free and anonymous mental health services. All senior students attended sessions highlighting the mental health resources available through Kooth and shared valuable tips on maintaining mental resilience. Students in Year 12 and 13 attended additional assemblies providing further guidance on managing health during the exam period, with practical advice on reducing stress and staying mentally balanced during times of academic pressure.

In line with these efforts, WGS is delighted to have appointed our very own Head of Wellbeing, Maggie Keeley, as our new Mental Health Lead to coordinate staff training and expand the school's mental health support network. All staff members will participate in training sessions and Mental Health First Aid training designed to equip them with the skills needed to assist students who may be facing mental health challenges. 

Throughout the term we have a range of events planned to maintain open discussions surrounding mental health. These events include:

• Empathy Week, celebrating the importance of understanding and compassion.
• Movember, supporting men's mental health awareness.
• Children’s Mental Health Week, focusing on the wellbeing of young people.

These initiatives, alongside the efforts of the newly trained Student Mental Health Champions, aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all at WGS.

For further information about Kooth and their services, visit www.kooth.com.