The Importance of Prioritising Student Wellbeing in Schools

Wellbeing is a critical aspect of every student’s overall health and wellbeing, both during their time at school and beyond. Yet mental health issues among children and young people are on the rise. 

In this article, we’ll explore why student wellbeing is important and should be a top priority for schools and educators, and we’ll provide actionable tips for promoting a culture where wellbeing is valued and nurtured.

Why is Student Wellbeing Important?

Student wellbeing encompasses their physical, mental health and wellbeing, social, and emotional health. When students have high levels of wellbeing, they are better equipped to learn, build positive relationships, and reach their full potential. Creating an environment where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued is essential for fostering student wellbeing. 

It’s clear that student wellbeing is important not just for their academic success but for their overall development and long-term mental health and wellbeing.

Some key reasons why wellbeing is so important for students include:

• Improved academic performance and educational outcomes
• Increased engagement and motivation in learning
• Better social integration and relationships with peers and teachers
• Higher self-efficacy, self-worth, and life satisfaction
• Reduced risk of mental health problems now and later in life

Tips for Promoting Student Wellbeing in Schools

1. Prioritise Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

SEL helps students develop critical skills like self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, building positive relationships with others, and responsible decision-making. These skills are crucial for students’ overall health and well-being, as they contribute to various aspects of wellbeing such as emotional regulation, social connections, and resilience. Integrating SEL into the curriculum can help students build emotional intelligence, improve their relationships with others, and enhance their overall well-being, both in and out of the classroom.

2. Foster a Positive School Culture and Environment

A safe, supportive, and inclusive school environment is essential for student wellbeing. This means actively working to prevent bullying, discrimination, and disciplinary issues, as these can have a significant negative impact on students’ emotional well-being and overall experience at school. It also means celebrating diversity, encouraging positive interactions, and making sure students feel seen and heard. 

By prioritising the importance of wellbeing in the school culture and environment, educators can create a space where students feel valued, respected, and supported in their academic and personal growth. A positive school environment sets the foundation for students to thrive in all aspects of their well-being while at school.

3. Provide Mental Health Education and Resources

Educating students about mental health is key to reducing stigma and empowering them to seek help when needed. This is why it’s so important to prioritise mental health education as part of the overall health and wellbeing of a student. Consider offering lessons on topics like stress management, healthy coping strategies, and how to support a friend in need. 

These lessons can help students develop a better understanding of their own emotional wellbeing and provide them with tools to find meaning and happiness in their lives. Ensure guidance counsellors and other mental health professionals are available and accessible, as they play a crucial role in supporting students’ mental health needs. 

By making mental health education a priority, schools can send a clear message that wellbeing is important and help create a culture of openness and support.

4. Promote Meaningful Engagement and Relationships

Having a sense of belonging, purpose, and strong relationships are vital for wellbeing. Schools can help improve students’ overall wellbeing by nurturing these aspects through a whole-school approach that includes initiatives like mentoring programmes, peer support groups, extracurricular activities, and community service projects. 

These programmes not only provide opportunities for students to form meaningful connections with others but also foster positive emotions and a sense of accomplishment. By creating a school environment that values and promotes engagement and relationships, educators can help students build the social and emotional skills they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom. 

Ultimately, these efforts can improve their overall wellbeing and set them up for success in all areas of their lives.

5. Support Teacher and Staff Wellbeing

Educators play a crucial role in promoting student wellbeing, but they can’t do so effectively if their own mental health and wellbeing are neglected. Investing in staff wellbeing, e.g. through wellness programmes, mental health days, and a positive work culture, has ripple effects for the whole school community. 

When teachers feel supported and have access to resources to maintain their own wellbeing, they are better equipped to create a nurturing environment that fosters student wellbeing and academic achievement.

6. Partner with Families and the Community

Home life and community involvement are just two examples of the many factors that affect students’ wellbeing outside of the classroom. Building strong partnerships with families and community organisations can provide a wider support network and ensure students’ needs are being met holistically. 

By collaborating with these key stakeholders, schools can create a more comprehensive approach to promoting health and wellbeing for all children and young people.

7. Use Evidence-Based Wellbeing Strategies

There are many evidence-based approaches to promoting wellbeing in the classroom, such as positive psychology, mindfulness, and social-emotional learning programmes. These strategies have been shown to improve various aspects of student wellbeing, including mental health, emotional regulation, and academic performance. 

It’s important for schools to do thorough research and consult experts to find the best fit for their specific context, taking into account factors like student demographics, school culture, and available resources.

8. Make Wellbeing a Whole-School Priority

Wellbeing can’t just be a one-off lesson or programme – it needs to be embedded into all aspects of school life. This requires a whole-school approach that involves everyone in the school community, from students and staff to families and community partners. It means prioritising wellbeing in school policies, curriculum, and extracurricular activities while creating a culture where everyone feels safe, supported, and valued. 

Making wellbeing a whole-school priority also requires strong leadership, ongoing professional development for staff, and a commitment to continuous improvement based on data and feedback.

The Role of Student Planners in Supporting Wellbeing

One tangible way to prioritise wellbeing is through customised student planners. Penstripe planners go beyond just helping students stay organised – they can include wellbeing prompts, self-reflection activities, stress management tips, and mental health resources.

Making Wellbeing a Priority

In today’s fast-paced, high-pressure world, student wellbeing is more important than ever. By making wellbeing a top priority and implementing evidence-based strategies, schools can empower students to thrive – not just academically but in all aspects of their lives.

If you’re looking for a practical tool to support your school’s wellbeing initiatives, consider investing in Penstripe student planners. Our team of experts can work with you to create a fully customised planner that meets the unique needs of your school community. Together, we can help every student reach their full potential.