In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world, the importance of mental wellbeing and resilience cannot be overstated. Our work at The Wellbeing Crew takes us into schools, from Primary through to Sixth Form. We constantly see the challenges and setbacks that can impact the emotional state of the students.
We believe that learning about resilience in school is crucial, as it provides the tools and skills to cope with adversity and build a strong foundation for the student’s future wellbeing.
November 2023 sees The Wellbeing Crew partnering with the Saltley Plus Project Consortium, working with nine schools specialising in Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND). The key outcomes for the project, which will run until the end of the academic year in July 2024, are to reduce exclusions and increase attendance within the nine schools.
So, how can we help The Saltley Plus Project Consortium, and other schools, and why is resilience a major factor with the issues faced today by many schools in the UK?
Understanding Emotional Resilience: An Essential Life Skill
Emotional resilience is a vital life skill that can have a significant impact on our overall well-being and success. It is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to change, and thrive in the face of adversity. Developing emotional resilience enables us to maintain a positive outlook, manage stress, and navigate challenges effectively.
In today’s society, young people face numerous pressures and challenges that can affect their emotional state. That’s why it’s crucial for schools to prioritise teaching emotional resilience.
Through our Reflections, coaching, and mentoring workshops, students can learn to understand their emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and build the resilience needed to navigate the ups and downs of life.
By recognising emotional resilience as a vital life skill, students can begin to understand the importance of their mental well-being and the role resilience plays in their overall success. Learning to be emotionally resilient not only benefits students in their academic pursuits but also equips them with the tools and skills needed to thrive in adulthood.
Nurturing Resilience: Tips for Developing Emotional Strength
Building emotional strength and resilience is a lifelong journey, and there are many ways that young people can nurture their resilience and develop strong emotional strength.
The Reflections programme allows pupils to introspect and better understand their emotions and how they respond to challenges. By reflecting on their experiences, pupils can identify their strengths, and areas for growth, and learn from their past experiences.
Coaching and mentoring in schools provide valuable guidance and support. Having a trusted adult or mentor who can guide and offer advice can help young people develop healthy coping strategies and build emotional resilience.
It’s also important for pupils to cultivate a growth mindset and embrace the concept of lifelong learning. This means viewing setbacks and challenges as opportunities for growth and development rather than as failures. Encouraging a growth mindset in schools can help pupils develop the resilience to navigate life’s ups and downs.
Finally, practising self-care and self-compassion is essential for nurturing resilience. Encouraging pupils to prioritise their well-being and engage in activities that bring them joy and relaxation can help them recharge and build the emotional strength needed to face challenges head-on.
Building Resilience Early Sets up Success for Adulthood
Building resilience early in life sets the foundation for success in adulthood. By learning resilience in school, young people gain the tools and skills to navigate the challenges and setbacks they will inevitably face. These skills extend beyond academic success and profoundly impact mental wellbeing and overall success in life.
Individuals are better equipped to cope with stress, adapt to change, and maintain a positive outlook by developing emotional resilience at a young age. This allows them to approach challenges with confidence and determination, knowing they can overcome obstacles.
Building resilience early also cultivates a growth mindset essential for lifelong learning and personal growth. By embracing setbacks as opportunities for growth, individuals are more likely to persevere and succeed in their endeavours.
If you’d like to find out more about The Wellbeing Crew’s new Emotional Resilience program, please get in touch.
