North Devon school takes action for students on World Mental Health Day

Students at Bideford College were invited to join in with a range of engaging activities to mark World Mental Health Day on Friday (October 10).

The college, part of Athena Learning Trust, staged various creative and uplifting events aimed at promoting positive mental health and wellbeing.

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These included a bake sale featuring biscuits and cakes made by Year 7 students, Mindful Mandala colouring, origami sessions and a craft activity encouraging students to create and share positive messages.

Above: Among the World Mental Health Day activities was a bake sale organised by Year 7 students. Credit: Bideford College

Outdoors, students enjoyed a one-bounce ball game, combining fresh air and exercise to support good mental health, while the school band performed live music, lifting everyone’s spirits. To show their support, staff and sixth form students wore yellow throughout the day.

Above: The Bideford College band entertains. Credit: Bideford College

It is recognised that many young people now deal with mental health concerns, with one in five people aged between eight and 25 now having a diagnosable mental health disorder.

Bideford College said staff receive comprehensive training on how mental health needs may at times affect student behaviour.

It said the college also works closely with local and national mental health service providers to secure the services needed to improve outcomes for young people with mental health difficulties.

The college said its physical health and mental wellbeing curriculum teaches students about various social and life skills to improve their own and others’ mental health.

This includes talking about their emotions accurately and sensitively, using appropriate vocabulary, as well as how to recognise the early signs of mental wellbeing concerns.

They will also learn about common types of mental ill health such as anxiety and depression and also how to critically evaluate when something they do or are involved in has a positive or negative effect on their own or others’ mental health.

The importance of physical exercise, time outdoors, community participation and voluntary and service-based activities are also highlighted.

Above: Among the outdoor activities on World Mental Health Day was a penalty shoot out. Credit: Bideford College 

Below: Harry from Year 9 was the penalty shoot out winner. Credit: Bideford College 

In its most recent report, Ofsted commented that leaders at Bideford have created a safe environment for pupils and that staff consider the emotional health and well-being of pupils carefully. Inspectors also noted that pupils benefit from a comprehensive personal, social, health, citizenship and economic education.

Dr Claire Ankers, principal at Bideford College and Atlantic Academy said: “At Bideford College we believe that supporting mental health is just as important as academic learning.

“By giving our students the knowledge, skills and confidence to look after their wellbeing, we are helping them prepare for life beyond the classroom.

“World Mental Health Day is a reminder that together we can break down stigma, build resilience, and create a culture of openness and support.”

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