Tips for wellness from our Mental Health In Schools Team
“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.” – Jon Kabat-Zinn
Transition
Transitioning into a new class or school can feel exciting and scary at the same time. It is important to remember, you are not alone in this situation or alone with experiencing these feelings. If you are worried, it can be helpful to talk about how you are feeling about the transition with others as they may help you get prepared or give you a different perspective to consider, which can help you to feel better about it. Below are some tips to help you manage your transition into a new class or school.
Our tips for coping with transitions:
1 – What will be the same? When moving to a new class or school, it can feel overwhelming because we feel that everything will change but there may be some similarities. For example, you may still have some people you know in your new class and you may still be learning subjects that you love.
2 – Think about what you can control You may be worrying about the things that will be different in your new class. Think about the things you have control over and can think of practical solutions for. For example, can you visit your new classroom or complete your new journey to school, ahead of the first day? Can you ask a sibling or a friend to walk into class with you? You can ask for ideas from friends and family members too!
Follow this link for a video to show how some children solved their worries about moving up to secondary school.
Please contact [email protected] for information and advice about mental health and well-being for your child and your family.
This week, I have chosen books based on Miss Delargy’s request for stories about strong women from history. Some of the women are well known, but most of their voices are not. All of this weeks books are written by Honor Cargill-Martin – an amazing author, classicist and art historian who is passionate about herstory being told,
First, I have chosen Heroines Of The Ancient World which is a beautifully illustrated book that brings to life the fascinating stories of remarkable women from ancient history introducing children to courageous and inspiring heroines whose lives have shaped the world in unique ways.
The book features vivid and engaging retellings of powerful women, such as Cleopatra, the famous Egyptian ruler known for her intelligence and leadership; Mary Hebraea, recognised as the first known alchemist who explored the mysteries of science; and Boudica, the fierce warrior queen who bravely fought to protect her people. Each story is written in a way that is accessible and exciting for young readers, sparking their curiosity about ancient times and the extraordinary lives of these women.
The illustrations throughout the book are rich and colourful, perfectly complementing the stories and helping to transport children back to the ancient worlds these heroines lived in. It’s an inspiring read that not only entertains but also educates, offering children a chance to learn about history from the perspective of strong female figures often overlooked in traditional history lessons.
Celebrating bravery, intelligence, and resilience, showing that heroism comes in many forms, Heroines of the Ancient Worlds is a truly empowering read that brings history to life with the amazing stories of women who changed the ancient world.
Next, I have picked She Speaks: The Women Of Greek Myths In Their Own Words, a refreshing twist on familiar Greek tales – this time told by the women who lived them.
In this engaging and beautifully written collection, classicist Honor Cargill-Martin gives voice to eight iconic female characters from Greek mythology, from the misunderstood Medusa to the determined Atalanta.
Each story is told in the first person, allowing readers to step directly into the minds of these powerful and complex women. We meet Medea, the clever sorceress who helped Jason on his quest for the Golden Fleece; Ariadne, the brave princess who helped defeat the Minotaur; and Helen of Troy, who reclaims her story after being blamed for a war. Other well-known figures like Circe and Pandora also feature, each one reimagined with empathy, intelligence, and strength.
The writing is both accessible and thought-provoking, making it a perfect introduction to mythology for young readers, especially those curious about history, storytelling, and strong female characters. Honor’s passion for the Classics shines through every page, and her retellings invite children to see these ancient tales in a bold new light. The book is also beautifully illustrated by Camelia Pham, whose fantasy-inspired artwork adds depth and drama to each story.
This collection is a celebration of courage, cleverness, and the power of telling your own story. A must-read for anyone who’s ever wondered what really happened in those ancient myths.
And finally, whether you are just starting to explore British history or are already fascinated by the Tudor era, The Six Queens Of Henry VIII is an engaging read that will inspire curiosity and respect for the women behind one of England’s most famous kings.
Most of us know the story of Henry VIII and his six wives, but this beautifully illustrated book offers a fresh and exciting look at these remarkable women, showing that they were much more than just wives. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy history mixed with adventure and fascinating facts.
Did you know that Catherine of Aragon, Henry’s first wife, once rallied troops while wearing full armour — even though she was heavily pregnant? Or that Anne of Cleves met Henry VIII before they were married, but didn’t recognise him because he was disguised? And Catherine Parr, the last queen, was the one who convinced Henry to restore his daughters Mary and Elizabeth to the throne, two of Britain’s most famous monarchs?
Bringing the six queens to life, highlighting their courage, intelligence, and determination, Honor uses a mix of fascinating fact files and graphic novel style recounts of the wives’ lives. It’s filled with stories of ambition, tricky political games, and plenty of scandal. The powerful descriptions of their lives, from glittering gowns to secret plots, make history feel exciting and relatable for children. Bright, bold, colourful graphics by Jamiee Andrews bring these strong personalities to life.
The Six Queens of Henry VIII helps readers understand that these women were powerful figures who shaped history in their own right, and should not just be remembered as Henry’s wives. The lively storytelling and interesting details are sure to capture the imagination of children and adults alike.
Tips for wellness from our Mental Health In Schools Team
Friendship
“I get by with a little help from my friends.” – The Beatles
Friendships are so important for our mental health, as they help to build our self-esteem, give us a sense of belonging and give us opportunities to share fun and happy experiences with others. We can also speak to our friends for support, or they can help to distract us through tougher times. Connecting with others is one of the NHS 5 ways to wellbeing; the 5 types of activities we need to be doing to promote our wellbeing!
Our tips for friendship:
Listen and pay attention – this makes others feel valued and heard.
Celebrate their wins – be happy for your friend when they succeed and celebrate with them, this makes them feel loved.
Support them – this may be by just listening to them or helping them to find solutions to their problems.
Have fun together! – making memories together makes friendships stronger, maybe try out a new hobby together!
This half-term, all of the themes have come from different staff members. This week, the books all link to Mr Beech’s childhood interests – monsters, myths, and Marvel…
First, The World Of The Unknown: Monsters is from one of my favourite childhood non-fiction series, which had recently been updated and rereleased for a new generation of children curious about the unexplained.
If you are fascinated by mythical creatures and mysterious beasts, World of the Unknown: Monsters is a thrilling read that’s bound to capture your imagination. Originally published in 1977, this classic Usborne title explores the legends of monsters from around the globe — from dragons and sea serpents to the ever-enigmatic Loch Ness monster.
Presented in an engaging and accessible way for young readers, the book is packed with intriguing tales and spine-tingling illustrations. It’s part of the much-loved World of the Unknown series, which has become something of a nostalgic favourite for adults too. This new edition includes a foreword by comedian and author Robin Ince, adding a modern touch while keeping the original intrigue intact.
Perfect for curious minds who enjoy a good mystery, this book is sure to spark plenty of questions and imaginative conversations!
Next, I have chosen Storyland by Amy Jeffs, the children’s edition, which is a spellbinding adventure into the lost mythology of how Britain began.
If you’re looking for a book that brings history, myth and magic to life, this beautifully illustrated retelling of Britain’s ancient myths and legends is a treasure trove of giants, dragons, heroes, and mysterious landscapes, all waiting to be explored.
Many children will already be familiar with figures like Thor or Medusa, but Storyland introduces a whole new world of wonder, rooted in the myths of the British Isles. From Trojan warriors landing on our shores, to dragons slumbering beneath hills, and kings whispering to spirits of the dead, the book offers a thrilling journey through stories that have shaped our land for centuries.
Travelling from the misty Orkney Isles to the cliffs of Cornwall, readers will meet young Merlin helping to build Stonehenge, Syrian sisters seeking safety, and heroes sailing Britain’s rivers in search of destiny. Each tale is brought vividly to life with rich, atmospheric illustrations and storytelling that feels both ancient and fresh.
This children’s edition of Jeffs’ bestselling book has been carefully adapted to suit young readers, making it an excellent choice for curious minds aged 8 and up. The language is accessible while still capturing the poetic feel of myth, and the stories spark the imagination as well as a sense of connection to Britain’s landscape and history.
Storyland is perfect whether shared aloud or enjoyed independently, and offers a wonderful way to introduce readers of any age to folklore, geography and the magic of storytelling. A truly spellbinding read, it will leave you dreaming of giants and legends long after the last page is turned.
And finally, An Atlas Of Marvel – the complete guide to the Marvel Universe!
This vibrant, fully illustrated book takes readers on a journey through the entire Marvel universe, starting in the heart of New York City and expanding outwards to cover Earth, the galaxy, and even distant parts of the cosmos.
With detailed maps and illustrations straight from the comics, children can explore famous locations such as the Avengers Mansion and the Xavier Institute. These aren’t just dots on a map; they’re brought to life with in-situ artwork and exciting zoom-ins that showcase key comic scenes. It’s like opening a window into the world of superheroes.
The book also shines a spotlight on some of Marvel’s most beloved characters. There’s a fun look at all of Spider-Man’s different suits, an overview of the many X-Men, a timeline of Black Widow’s history, and the various forms the Hulk has taken over the years. It’s both informative and visually engaging, making it ideal for curious readers.
Whether you are just beginning your Marvel adventure or already know every superhero’s backstory, this book offers a fresh and exciting way to dive deeper. Full of colour, action, and fascinating details, An Atlas of Marvel is sure to spark imaginations and might even inspire a bit of map-making at home!
A must-have for any Marvel enthusiast’s bookshelf.
Tips for wellness from our Mental Health In Schools Team
Listening
“He understands badly who listens badly.” Welsh proverb
Listening is an important skill that helps us to feel connected to others and the world around us. When we listen, we can learn new things, solve problems and interact with people around us. This is great for our mental health as we are using our minds and connecting with people.
Try out these games to test your listening skills:
1 – Sound hunt! Close your eyes and listen carefully to the sounds around you. See how many sounds you can identify in a minute. This type of listening activity helps us to connect with the world around us, which can help us to feel calm.
2 – Weekend catch up In pairs, partners should take it in turns to talk for 1 minute about their weekend. The children should then ask each other questions about their weekend, to see if the listener could remember what they did. Each partner can score points for each question they answered correctly.
3 – I went to the supermarket, and I bought a… As a group, sit in a circle. The first person says, “I went to the supermarket, and I bought a…” and they choose an item, for example an apple. The next person has to repeat that sentence and choose their own item to add. For example, “I went to the supermarket, and I bought an apple and a book”. Keep going around the circle adding items. If someone forgets an item, you move onto the next player. It gets harder as you go!
These last two games encourage ‘active listening’, where you are taking in the information you are hearing. This is a useful skill to practice. You can also practice this at home, trying to remember what you have heard on a programme or video!
Please contact [email protected] for information and advice about mental health and well-being for your child and your family.
I am so excited for our official opening of the Cannon Park Spinney this afternoon, which will be a wonderful learning environment for us all, and we cannot thank Mr. Higgs enough for all of his backbreaking work bringing the vision to life. Every time I have visited it since work began, it has reminded me of the power of trees to calm and steady my soul while igniting my imagination. And so, this week’s theme is wild woods…
My first choice this week is Wild by Katya Balen, a celebration of wildness, both in the natural world and within ourselves.
At the heart of the story is a little girl who finds joy and freedom in the great outdoors. Her world is filled with trees, stars, and the earthy magic of the woods. She runs, climbs, and plays, revelling in the sense of space and the untamed beauty all around her. In the wilderness, she feels completely at home. It’s where she finds peace and imagination, seeing “secrets in the stars and stories in the earth”.
But life changes when the girl moves to the city. Suddenly, she is surrounded by towering buildings, grey concrete, and unfamiliar sounds. The wild places she loved are gone, and with them, a part of herself seems to disappear. She feels lost and alone, disconnected from everything that once made her feel alive. The city feels closed in, quiet in the wrong way – a stark contrast to the lively, natural world she left behind.
Wild is not, however, a story of sadness. It is a journey of rediscovery. Slowly, the girl begins to notice moments of wildness even in the city – in the shapes of the clouds, in patches of grass pushing through the pavement, in a sudden gust of wind. With the help of her imagination and an open heart, she realises that wildness isn’t only found in forests and fields. It can live in memories, in small everyday details, and most importantly, inside herself.
Gill Smith’s illustrations are a perfect complement to the text. Rich with texture and movement, they shift from the lush greens and warm tones of the countryside to the muted greys and blues of the city, before blending the two in a hopeful, heartwarming finale. Her use of colour and contrast helps children visually experience the emotional journey of the story.
Wild is a gentle but empowering reminder that nature, and our own inner wildness, can be found in the most unexpected places. It encourages children to look closely at the world around them and to find beauty and wonder wherever they are, and invites meaningful conversations about belonging, nature, and the power of imagination.
Next, I’ve chosen a fabulous new book by the amazing Andy Shepherd, The Wood Where Magic Grows. Publishing in July (we’re very lucky to have got an early read) it’s a charming, whimsical adventure that celebrates the wonders of the natural world and the power of imagination.
Iggy has recently moved into a new house with his family. At the end of the garden lies Wildtop Wood, a mysterious, overgrown forest that instantly draws him in. Together with his older brother Cal, Iggy begins to explore this tangled wilderness and soon discovers there is far more to it than meets the eye. Faces seem to peer out from the bark of trees, animals behave in curious ways, and whispers hint at a secret magic that is slowly fading.
What makes this book so special is its blend of gentle humour, enchanting atmosphere and emotional depth. Iggy is a wonderfully relatable character; curious, kind, and just a little bit unsure of himself. The bond between him and Cal is beautifully portrayed, showing both the joys and tensions of sibling relationships. As they uncover the secrets of Wildtop Wood, the boys also grow in confidence and understanding, not just of the magical world around them, but of themselves.
Andy Shepherd’s writing is warm and inviting, with lyrical descriptions that bring the forest vividly to life. Readers will delight in the idea that trees might be watching us, or even waiting for someone to notice them….
There’s a strong environmental theme threaded throughout the story, gently encouraging young readers to connect with nature and consider the importance of caring for our green spaces. A perfect pick for budding nature lovers, young explorers, and anyone who believes there might just be a little magic hidden in the trees.
And finally, for our older readers, I’ve picked Bloom by Nicola Skinner, a beautifully written novel bursting with imagination, humour, and heart.
Meet Sorrel Fallowfield, a model pupil who prides herself on her rule-following skills. In fact, she’s so well-behaved that her teachers turn to her for help when they forget the countless rules imposed by her rather joyless school. But Sorrel’s perfectly ordered world is turned upside down when she unearths a mysterious packet of “Surprising Seeds” in her garden. From that moment on, her life begins to sprout, quite literally, into something entirely unexpected.
As Sorrel starts planting the seeds in the most unlikely places, strange things begin to happen. She hears whispering voices, sees unusual sights, and eventually, rather spectacularly, finds flowers growing from her own head. Unsurprisingly, this makes it difficult to win the school’s “Most Obedient Child” competition. But what starts as a chaotic nuisance soon blossoms into something far more meaningful: a rebellion against dull conformity and a celebration of individuality, creativity, and nature.
Nicola Skinner’s storytelling is richly original and wickedly witty. She weaves a story that will captivate young readers, while offering plenty of laughs and some important themes to ponder. At its core, Bloom is a joyful reminder that sometimes the rules are worth breaking, especially when they stifle the natural curiosity and imagination of children.
With its wonderfully eccentric cast of characters and vivid, botanical flair, the book offers a wild ride that’s as meaningful as it is entertaining. It’s a clever, heartfelt, and uproariously funny story that will stay with young readers long after the final petal has fallen.
Tips for wellness from our Mental Health In Schools Team
Caring
Caring is about looking after the needs of yourself and others. There are lots of ways you can show others that you care, showing kindness, compassion, love, support and being thoughtful.
It is equally important to take time to care for ourselves, sometimes termed ‘self-care’. This can help us to increase our resilience and sense of self-worth. Allowing yourself time to engage in activities you enjoy and make you feel good, along with recognising unkind thoughts and trying to replace these with kinder thoughts can be part of caring for yourself.
Caring for others can help us feel connected, purposeful, and close to those we care for. These things are positive for our mental wellbeing. Can you think of a way you’ve shown care for someone this week?
Everyday millions of people in the UK give additional care to people they know through helping with everyday living tasks. Young Carers may also be responsible for looking after younger brothers and sisters and doing household chores. If you are, or you support a Young Carer, you can find local carers support by following these links:
Caring Chain – write down an act of caring they can do for another person or for themselves on a strip of paper. Create a paper chain with each of these strips, by folding and linking them together. This can then be displayed and children can be encouraged to give a new act of caring a go each week.
Try to identify 3 ways you have been caring towards yourself and 3 ways you have been caring towards others. Then, set a goal for another caring act you can carry out over the following week.
