Pupils across the whole school took time last week to focus on the importance of good mental health, particularly the powerful impact that being part of a community can have on our wellbeing.
The new pupil Heads and Deputy Heads of School made their first public appearance during Senior School assemblies, to advocate the value of being part of a safe and positive community where you can feel at ease in yourself and build a sense of togetherness.
Amaya, Head of School, explained the communal strength of her running club, saying: “In being vulnerable – by admitting that we don’t always feel able to complete our sessions – it’s enabled us to be vulnerable about other aspects of our mental health.”
Peter, Head of School, shared how “Joy and humour are often emphasised in the Ghanaian community, especially during difficult times. That mindset: choosing to celebrate life, even under pressure, helps me stay positive and grounded when things feel overwhelming.”
Eliana, Deputy Head of School, spoke about the community of friends she has made playing football at Highgate (above), saying: “Through hectic bus rides to matches and celebrating wins together, there’s a comradery that forms when playing sports that is impossible to replicate, and that is a great foundation for a community.”
Faizan, Deputy Head, reflected on the value of Highgate’s house system, a friendly and supportive community made up of pupils in Years 9-13. “For me, a group like Heathgate – which I can both uplift and lean on when needed – captures the true essence of community, providing me with an innate sense of belonging and value.”
Ariella, Deputy Head, spoke about her Jewish community, and how it “provides me with a sense of belonging and a group of people who I know are looking out for me which I find comforting. Especially when I am not at my best, I know they are a safe place to go.”
In the Junior School, pupils spent some time celebrating the communities that are important to them as well building new connections within the school community through some fun wellbeing activities. Year 6 pupils took on a leadership role in engaging Year 3 in some creative games, whilst Year 4 and 5 pupils were lucky enough to spend some time with the Reception children in the Outdoor Classroom, building nature photo frames.
Nicole Sawdaye, Pupil Personal Development Coordinator in the Junior School, reflected: “In the Junior School we have a year-round focus on mental health and are always engaging our children in the importance of their wellbeing, teaching them how to be kind to themselves and keep themselves mentally healthy. Mental Health Awareness Week was a wonderful opportunity for us all to learn more about each other and to remind the children just how important it is to engage in activities that make them happy and feel supported.”
Also, during the week Pre-Prep children looked at how connecting with nature can support our wellbeing. They spent time in our outdoor classroom, using Tibetan singing bowls to calm their minds and help focus, enjoying the peaceful sounds and vibrations.
The children then experienced Shinrin-yoku, also known as forest bathing – a Japanese practice that involves quietly and mindfully immersing ourselves in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest. This gentle activity helps reduce stress and encourages a deeper connection with the natural world.
