Following the success of last year’s first-ever Well-being Week, boys and staff once again immersed themselves in week filled with a variety of feel-good activities, all aimed to help relieve the pressures of the busy school year.
Good food, music, sport, art and story-telling have all been on the menu with lots of boys trying something new.
Activities included:
A ‘pop up’ Well-being café – Situated in our Quarry Theatre café, this pretty little spot played host to a lunchtime café, where boys could gather and listen to live music. A staff bake-off competition was held on Monday morning, where the enthusiastic staff members baked ‘showstopper’ cakes. After judging, the cakes were sold in the café to raise money for charity. Staff observed that boys who usually only mix with pupils within their own house were chatting and engaging with boys from all houses, across all ages, and without the distraction of technology.
Yoga – It would not be a Well-being Week without a spot of yoga! Led by yogi extraordinaire and music teacher Mr Rooke, this lunchtime activity was open to all; in particular, complete novices were strongly encouraged to give it a go! There was a fantastic turn out. Held in the Quarry Theatre, and accompanied by music played on a grand piano, the atmosphere was tranquil and relaxing – even for a group of teenage boys!
Mindfulness – Every week we welcome an external instructor to school to deliver a half hour-long meditation session. This week, we encouraged those who had not tried mindfulness before to take an hour out of their busy schedule and come along.
Ultimate Frisbee – An Ultimate Frisbee session provided some active fun during Thursday lunchtime. Boys competed in their houses and were cheered on by plenty of supporters.
Drink and draw – On Thursday, staff were encouraged to exercise their creative flair in an art workshop where they could take part in life drawing or make a lino-cut print. All with the knowledgeable art department staff on hand to provide direction.
Running Club – Run by Charlie Palmer every Friday, this week there was a real focus on encouraging new people to have a go. All abilities were welcome and walking was fine!
Other activities included a house Fifa competition, story-telling, staff tennis, chess and time spent in the School Chapel.
Of course, well-being and positivity of mind is always encouraged. However, with daily stresses and relentlessly busy lives, taking a step back and refocusing our minds once in a while can do us the world of good.