CHILDREN at a borough school understand how valuable they are thanks to a week of positivity.
During Walter Infants School’s Wellbeing Week, youngsters were able to take part in self affirming activities that included workshops, songs, and artwork.
Deputy headteacher, Stephanie Bell, said: “Our wellbeing week was wonderful for all our children, and great for the staff too.”
Youngsters learnt that every voice matters, including their own.
“It was very empowering for them,” continued Ms Bell.
“We read a book by children’s mental health charity Place2Be, and the youngsters took part in wellbeing workshops where they learnt how to speak out, and also how to remain calm.
“Naomi from Gabriels Education worked with all 303 of our pupils, including the very youngest in our nursery.”
The whole school learnt a song by Emelie Sandé called, Your Voice Matters, and every child received a wooden board that they were able to cover with positive words about themselves.
“Our PTA kindly funded these boards, and the children loved them,” said Ms Bell.
“They painted and decorated them, and then they covered them with phrases like: ‘I am strong’, ‘I am worthy’, ‘I am amazing’, before taking them home.”
Ms Bell says that the school has already seen how positively the week has affected the children.
“We’ve seen a big difference,” she said.
“These children all experienced the pandemic.
“They weren’t able to go to toddler groups, or birthday parties, and it can be hard for them when they start nursery or school.
“Emotions are big for them, and for their parents too, so we’re focusing on ways to support the whole school community’s wellbeing.
“We’re aiming for the Wellbeing Award for Schools, which we hope we may achieve in the summer.”
For more information, visit: www.walter.wokingham.sch.uk, www.place2be.org.uk, www.gabrielseducation.com, and www.awardplace.co.uk
