This week has been another busy and purposeful one in our Wellbeing Programme, with a focus on respect, communication and proactive self-care.

First Form: Understanding the difference between Banter and Bullying
On Monday, our First Form students took part in an interactive session led by our Assistant Head and Designated Safeguarding Lead, Ms Lauren Austen. The session explored the difference between banter and bullying through real-life examples and open discussion.

Students were invited to position themselves along a “banter-to-bullying” scale in response to different statements, helping them to see that we all have different boundaries and sensitivities. The key takeaway was that healthy banter should always be equal, friendly and light-hearted and never at the expense of someone’s feelings or identity.

We also talked about the importance of communicating when something does not feel right. As a group, we acknowledged that it can be hard to speak up and we explored ways to express discomfort kindly and confidently. Students were reminded that it is perfectly OK to say, “Please stop, I don’t find that funny.”

Second Form: Building a Mental Health Toolkit
Our Second Form students have been learning strategies to proactively support their mental wellbeing. Just as we care for our physical health through exercise and nutrition, it is equally important to look after our mental health with intention and balance.

Students shared their own examples of what helps them feel positive, ranging from time outdoors to listening to music, and added new techniques to their personal “wellbeing toolkit” for managing moments of stress.

Fifth and Sixth Form: Launching the ‘Get It’ Scheme
Parents of Fifth and Sixth Form students will have received a letter about the school’s involvement with Metro Charity’s ‘Get It Scheme’, a free and confidential sexual health initiative accredited by Kent County Council.