As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, our Year 3 and 4 boys took time to talk about something that really matters: looking after your mental health and being kind to yourself and to each other.
Our school counsellor, Amanda Horlick-Coutts, together with Upper School Mental Health Ambassadors Nicholas and Jonathan, joined the boys in assembly to explore why mental health is so important, from helping us feel good inside, managing big feelings, learning well and staying healthy.
Using a backpack as a symbol for the emotional load we can carry with us each day, the boys shared the many feelings they can experience, big and small. They also came up with some brilliant ideas for tough days, from talking to someone you trust, to exercising or doing something you enjoy.
The boys tried out practical tools too, including balloon breathing and a simple 10‑second reset, as well as hearing top tips from our Mental Health Ambassadors about how they look after their own wellbeing.
Kindness, understanding and open conversations are a big part of how we support mental health at Bedford Prep, and we are proud of the thoughtful way our boys approached these discussions.
Useful links for parents
Childline – offer a variety of coping techniques for managing big or difficult feelings
Mental Health Foundation
